Title: Tunisian Politics: Rached Ghannouchi, Ennahdha Party Leader, Released from Money Laundering Investigation

Dramatic Release from Money-Laundering Trial

In a notable turn of events, Rached Ghannouchi, the speaker of Tunisia’s dissolved parliament and the head of the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party, was released from a money-laundering investigation on Thursday, October 20, 2022. He walked out of a courthouse in Sousse, following a one-day trial (AFP).

• Ghannouchi stands accused of money laundering and incitement to violence

Background: Investigation and Allegations

This is Ghannouchi’s second appearance in court, having first been questioned in July 2022 regarding the same case. Other Ennahdha party members have also faced prosecution for suspicious transactions related to Instalingo, a digital content production firm under investigation since 2021. The allegations against Instalingo include plotting against state security and inciting violence.

Ghannouchi’s Response

Before the trial, Ghannouchi addressed the media and labeled the trial an “empty file” and an “invented problem.” He denounced the investigation as a distraction from Tunisia’s real issues and a politically motivated move due to his criticism of President Kais Saied’s power grab in mid-2021.

Political Tensions and Charges

Saied’s power seizure was criticized widely, including by Ghannouchi and other political opposition. They also face charges in a separate case, labeled as the “shipment of jihadists,” which involves allegations of transporting fighters to conflict zones.

Impact on Ennahdha Party and Ghannouchi’s Personal Assets

In response to the investigation, the courts have frozen Ghannouchi’s Tunisian bank accounts along with those of several relatives and party members. Previously, a travel ban was imposed on Ghannouchi in May; this restriction came as part of an inquiry into the 2013 killings of two prominent left-wing figures.

All Ennahdha officials maintain their innocence concerning the allegations leveled against them.