Tunisia media says opposition figures sentenced to up to 45 years in prison

Dozens of Tunisian political figures were sentenced on appeal to up to 45 years in prison for plotting against the state, local media reported Friday, in a trial rights groups have condemned as politically motivated.

"The Court of Appeal in Tunis issued a final ruling early Friday against the defendants in what is known as the conspiracy against the state case," said radio station Mosaique FM, citing an official source, adding the terms ranged from five to 45 years.

Nearly 40 defendants, many of whom are critics of President Kais Saied, were sentenced to up to 66 years in April for "conspiracy against state security" and "belonging to a terrorist group".