Tunisian Parliament Committee Reviews Proposal to Revise Penal Code
The General Legislation Committee held a hearing on Friday with members of parliament who introduced a bill aimed at revising the Tunisian Penal Code. This reform project, which specifically targets the modification of articles 261, 262, and 264, is part of a broader effort to reevaluate the country's penal policy in light of new social realities. According to a statement from the Assembly of the People's Representatives (ARP), this initiative aims to curb the proliferation of violent robberies, commonly known as "braquages," in response to the perceived inadequacy of current sanctions.
Strengthened Repressive Measures
The authors of the proposal believe that the aggravation of this type of crime necessitates a change in the legislative paradigm. They advocate for tougher sentences that are proportionate to the severity of the crimes committed. Specifically, the bill provides for the abolition of the old articles in favor of new provisions that establish a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, which can be extended to 20 years. Notably, the proposal emphasizes the exclusion of any mitigating circumstances that could reduce the sentence, while remaining open to other suggestions to strengthen the effectiveness of the text.
A Multidimensional Approach
While welcoming this initiative as necessary in the face of the magnitude of the phenomenon, committee members argued for a multidimensional approach. For these elected officials, the state's response should not be limited to mere penal deterrence but should also include educational and cultural levers. Furthermore, several deputies stressed the importance of defining the term "braquage" with increased precision in the law, while calling for increased severity, particularly in cases of recidivism.
