Tunisia Court Issues Arrest Warrants for Former MP and Gafsa Phosphate Company CEO in Corruption Case
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Loading... - Akila Salah
- 16 Jul 2024
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The Tunis Court of Appeal Specializing in Financial Corruption Cases has issued arrest warrants for Tunisian businessman and former Member of Parliament Lotfi Ali, and the former CEO of the Gafsa Phosphate Company (CPG), Romdhane Souid, as reported by TAP on Saturday.
Arrest Warrants Issued
Deputy Attorney General Sonia Moussaoui confirmed the issuance of these arrest warrants. In addition to Souid and Ali, three additional defendants have been named:
- Slim Feriani: Former Minister of Industry under the 2016-2020 Chahed government.
- Mouldi Ali: Lotfi Ali’s brother.
- Abdelwaheb Hfaïedh.
These warrants are related to alleged corruption crimes involving a contract for the extraction and transport of phosphates.
The Phosphate Industry and Corruption
Economic Significance
Phosphate, a key component in fertilizers, is a crucial element of Tunisia’s mining sector. The phosphate industry significantly contributes to the country's economy, accounting for 4% of GDP and 15% of exports.
History of Corruption
Despite its economic importance, the phosphate industry has frequently been mired in social tensions and allegations of corruption. In August 2021, a Tunisian judge banned 12 government officials from traveling due to their suspected involvement in corrupt activities related to phosphate mining and transport. These individuals were subsequently arrested and charged with corruption crimes.
President Saied's Anti-Corruption Efforts
President Kais Saied has consistently vowed to combat corruption within the phosphate sector and beyond. His administration has taken several steps to address corruption, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and accountability in various industries.
Recent Measures
In addition to the recent crackdown on the phosphate sector, the Tunisian Federation of Insurance Companies (TFIC) has established the Agency to Combat Fraud and Scams (ALFA). This agency aims to address and reduce the growing instances of fraud, scams, and corruption within the insurance sector.
The issuance of arrest warrants for high-profile individuals such as Lotfi Ali and Romdhane Souid underscores Tunisia's ongoing efforts to tackle corruption. As the country continues to address these challenges, it remains to be seen how these measures will impact the broader landscape of Tunisia's key industries, including phosphate mining.
