TUNIS, Tunisia — Tunisia’s Court of Cassation has upheld prison sentences of up to 45 years imposed on opposition figures, lawyers and businessmen in a major conspiracy case, according to Reuters and Tunisia’s judicial sources.

The September 3 ruling represents the final stage of the three-year legal proceedings, with the court rejecting appeals against the convictions. Around 40 people were charged in the case, while some defendants were tried in absentia after leaving Tunisia.

Among those sentenced are prominent opposition figures, including Nejib Chebbi, who received a 12-year sentence. Other defendants include lawyers and business figures who received lengthy prison terms.

The ruling has generated competing interpretations. Defence lawyers and opposition figures argue that the convictions demonstrate a lack of judicial independence, while Tunisian authorities have maintained that the defendants were involved in efforts to destabilise the country and overthrow President Kais Saied.

The case is now adding to wider political debate in Tunisia over the judiciary, opposition activity and the balance of power between state institutions. Human Rights Watch has separately reported concerns about restrictions on civil society and political freedoms in the country.