Khaberni - Lotfi Abdelli, a Tunisian comedy star, said on Friday that a Tunisian court sentenced him in absentia to 18 months in prison after a play he performed four years ago.
Abdelli described the verdict in a statement to "Reuters" as politically motivated, aiming to stifle critical voices and free creativity.
In a phone call from Paris, where he has been living for years, Abdelli added, "This verdict aims to intimidate artists and silence free and critical voices," continuing, "It can only be a political judgment."
He continued, "I was pained upon hearing the verdict, but I also feel proud because it adds to my artistic achievements and my many global accolades since I am judged by imprisonment due to my play, my stance, and my freedom of expression."
Local media reported that the court charged Abdelli on Thursday with "insulting a public official and attributing false things to him" and "assault on morals."
The case dates back years following a complaint by a security union against Abdelli after a theatrical performance in Sfax, which experienced tension with security officers present at the time and sarcastically criticized the police.
Over the past few months, Abdelli has intensified his criticisms of President Kais Saied regarding how he handles the country's affairs.
Abdelli, who is also a famous film and television star, has presented his theatrical performances for years in theaters filled to capacity, attracting thousands of viewers.
He has long been mocking all political actors in Tunisia and portraying them in a caricatured manner.
