Tunisia has reduced penalties under a controversial cybercrime law.
President Kais Saied changed the 2022 decree on Wednesday. The law covers the spread of what it calls “fake news” and rumours online.
The changes remove prison sentences for first-time offences.
Repeat offences can now lead to a maximum of six months in prison, according to Africanews, citing AFP.
Tunisia cuts prison terms
The previous law allowed much tougher penalties.
People convicted under the decree could face up to five years in prison. They could also receive fines of up to 50,000 Tunisian dinars.
Moreover, the prison sentence could rise to 10 years if the offence targeted a public official.
However, the latest changes significantly reduce those penalties.
First-time offences will no longer carry a prison sentence. Meanwhile, repeat offences can lead to a maximum prison term of six months.
Rights groups welcome changes
Rights groups have criticised the law since its introduction in 2022.
They argue that it has been used against journalists and other critical voices.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) welcomed the removal of the five-year prison sentence.
However, the organisation said further changes were still needed.
RSF told AFP that the revision was a positive step. Still, it said the law did not yet meet international standards on press freedom.
Several public figures faced prosecution
Several prominent people have faced prosecution under the law.
They include lawyer and commentator Sonia Dahmani and former judge Ahmed Souab.
Political figure Abir Moussi and Franco-Tunisian journalist Mourad Zeghidi have also faced prosecution under the legislation.
Rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns about the law’s impact on freedom of expression.
The latest amendment reduces its prison penalties. However, critics continue to call for wider changes.
Tunisia fake news law remains under scrutiny
The changes mark a major reduction in the penalties available under the decree.
However, the law itself remains in place.
Rights groups are therefore expected to continue watching how authorities apply it.
For now, first-time offences will no longer result in prison sentences. Repeat offences can still carry up to six months in prison.