The International Nonviolence Organization (Free Muslims), affiliated with the global foundation of Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Sadiq Husayni Shirazi, has issued the following statement regarding the recent developments in Tunisia:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

The International Nonviolence Organization (Free Muslims) expresses deep concern over the recent developments in the Republic of Tunisia, particularly the growing public protests that reflect widespread despair, economic hardship, and restrictions on freedoms. This is especially true concerning demonstrations demanding a healthy environment in cities such as Gabes, as well as calls from the opposition for the release of political prisoners and an end to what they describe as authoritarian rule.

The organization emphasizes that peaceful expression of opinion and the pursuit of legitimate rights are fundamental human entitlements guaranteed to all nations, forming the cornerstone of modern and stable societies. In this regard, the organization calls on the Tunisian authorities to address the following issues:

• Respond seriously and urgently to public demands: especially those related to improving the deteriorating economic and social conditions, combating environmental pollution that threatens the health of citizens in regions such as Gabes, and ensuring a decent standard of living for all Tunisians.
• Strengthen and safeguard fundamental freedoms and rights: Authorities must cease the arrest of political opponents and civil society activists, immediately release prisoners of conscience, and guarantee freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without fear or repression.
• Reject violence and adopt peaceful solutions: The organization urges the complete avoidance of excessive force against peaceful demonstrators and calls for comprehensive and responsible dialogue as the only viable approach to resolving the current crises and addressing the roots of political and social problems.
• Support democratic transition: It is essential to consolidate democratic processes in Tunisia, respect the principle of separation of powers, guarantee the independence of the judiciary, and work toward building institutional governance that prevents the reestablishment of one-man rule.

The stability and prosperity of Tunisia depend on respecting the will of the people, ensuring social and environmental justice, and upholding human dignity and freedom.

The Tunisian government must understand that true stability cannot be achieved through repression and silencing dissent but rather through fulfilling the legitimate demands of the people, alleviating economic suffering, and fostering a just and healthy environment.

International Nonviolence Organization (Free Muslims) – Washington