Tunisia Frees Labour Union Official Tahar Mezzi Amidst Political Tensions

TUNIS, March 1 (Reuters) - In a significant development, Tunisia has released a top official from the country's largest labour union, the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT), a day after his detention sparked controversy and allegations of political motives. Tahar Mezzi, the UGTT's deputy secretary-general and head of the private sector, was freed by a judge's order, which also imposed a travel ban on him. Mezzi's arrest had come just days before a major protest organized by UGTT against what it describes as a breach of union rights and the stifling of social dialogue.

Mezzi's detention had drawn immediate criticism from the UGTT, which condemned the act as a politically motivated attempt to weaken the union's influence. The union, with around 1 million members, has been a pivotal voice against the arrests of activists, businessmen, and journalists following President Kais Saied's consolidation of power in 2021, an act the opposition deems a coup. The release of Mezzi, however, does not mark an end to the challenges faced by UGTT officials, as police have detained at least four senior members since last year.

Union's Diminishing Voice

The UGTT's role as a major force in Tunisia has been increasingly questioned since last year, with some political parties and activists accusing it of silence in the face of Saied's authoritarian governance. This criticism comes despite the union's history of activism and its significant contribution to the country's social dialogue. The upcoming protest, the first in months, is seen as a crucial moment for the UGTT to reaffirm its position and role in defending union rights and social dialogue in Tunisia.

The release of Tahar Mezzi, while a relief to many, underscores the ongoing tensions between the Tunisian government and labor unions. The imposed travel ban on Mezzi hints at the complexities of navigating political and social activism within the current Tunisian political landscape. As the UGTT prepares for its protest, the eyes of the nation and international observers will be on Tunisia, watching how these events unfold and what they signify for the future of union rights and political freedom in the country.