Tunisian journalist arrested for insulting the president

A prominent Tunisian journalist has been arrested on charges of insulting President Kais Said.

A judge ordered the detention of Zied el-Heni ahead of a trial in which he could be sentenced to five years in prison.

Tunisian activists have expressed concern over his health as he reportedly suffered a stroke some time ago.

In recent months, Tunisian judges have detained or opened investigations into more than 20 political, judicial, media and business figures associated with opposition to President Said.

The main opposition parties have condemned the arrests as politically motivated.