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Chokri Belaid trial opens in Tunisia

Tuesday, 30 June 2015 9:29 PM [ Last Update: Tuesday, 30 June 2015 9:30 PM ]

Adnen Chaouachi

Press TV, Tunis

The Tunisian leftist lawyer Chokri Belaid was assassinated on February 6, 2013. After two years of investigation, the trial of 30 people accused of plotting the assassination has opened in Tunisia's capital. Press TV's Adnen Chaouchi reports from Tunis.

The trial of 30 people accused of direct involvement in the assassination of the leftist opposition figure Chokri Belaid has opened in Tunis. Belaid was shot dead by 2 terrorists on February 6, 2013 near his home. 1800 lawyers are defending the Belaid family as well as the defendants.

3 defendants refused to appear before court and 6 are still on the run. Observers say more political assassinations could take place if all members of the terror networks are not arrested and tried.

Students and human rights activists have demonstrated near the court to call on the Authorities to combat terrorism.

An atmosphere of fear is still prevailing in Tunisia following 2 political assassinations in 2013 and 2 deadly attacks this year. However, activists say 12 Million Tunisians will never be defeated by terrorists.

Hundreds of Officers and anti-terrorism units have been deployed to protect the Tunis First Instance Court. The Justice and Interior Ministries have banned local and foreign media from filming Judges and prosecutors to prevent any retaliatory attacks.

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