Arab-Dominated Judiciary Is Unfair: Mauritania Jails Lawmakers Over Anti-President Posts

Two opposition lawmakers in Mauritania have been sentenced to four years in prison after being convicted of insulting the president and making allegations of racial bias , following social media posts targeting the country’s leadership.

The lawmakers, Marieme Cheikh Dieng and Ghamou Achour , were found guilty of “attacking the symbols of the state” and inciting gatherings to undermine public security . The charges stemmed from posts in which they criticised President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, called for his removal , and alleged systemic discrimination within the judiciary.

In their statements, the lawmakers said the “Arab-dominated judiciary is unfair,” claiming it treats Black citizens and descendants of enslaved communities as “second-class citizens.” Their remarks highlighted longstanding racial and social divisions in the country and formed the core of the case against them.

Prosecutors argued that the seriousness of the charges justified overriding parliamentary immunity , a claim strongly contested by the defence. Their lawyers confirmed the verdict, maintaining that the lawmakers were being punished for expressing political dissent. The government has not issued any official response , even as the case draws international attention .

Mauritania has long faced criticism over its legacy of slavery and entrenched inequality. Although slavery was abolished in 1981, activists say the practice persists. The 2023 Global Slavery Index estimates that around 149,000 people still live in conditions of modern slavery .

Activist Biram Dah Abeid condemned the ruling as “unjust” and “politically motivated,” calling the jailed lawmakers “heroes” and “sincere fighters against injustice.” There is no clarity yet on appeals or international diplomatic response , but the case is expected to remain under close watch.