Family of imprisoned Tunisian journalist Ben Brik on hunger strike in bid to win his release

Family of jailed Tunisian journalist take action

TUNIS, Tunisia — The wife of Tunisian journalist Taoufik Ben Brik says she and seven of his siblings have begun an unlimited hunger strike in a bid to win his release from prison.

Ben Brik is serving a six-month prison sentence for his November conviction on assault charges. The journalist is known for his critical stance toward Tunisia’s government, and his lawyer contends the charges against him were trumped-up.

Ben Brik’s wife, Azza Zarrad, on Thursday described the hunger strike as an attempt to “save” him. She said 49-year-old Ben Brik suffers from diabetes and a hormonal disorder and needs urgent medical treatment.

The French government and the media watchdog Reporters Without Borders have called for Ben Brik’s release so he can receive medical treatment.