The decision by the Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs to cancel the 34th edition of the Carthage Film Days just days before the festival's start was met with discontent and outright rejection from filmmakers, who called for a reconsideration of the decision. The ministry released a brief statement on Thursday justifying the cancellation due to "the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza and all Palestinian territories."
However, the Tunisian Association of Film Directors issued a statement on Friday expressing its strong opposition to the decision, labeling it hasty, and urging the Ministry of Cultural Affairs to rethink it. The association stated, "Cinema is not merely an entertaining art; it is an important means of expressing culture, identity, and resistance, especially at this particular time." They added, "The cancellation of this significant cultural event represents a serious blow to filmmakers and the cultural principles they uphold. We call on the Ministry of Cultural Affairs to reconsider this decision and support cinema and culture as a means of expression and resistance to enhance cultural communication."
The 34th edition of the festival, which is among the oldest and most prominent film festivals in North Africa, was scheduled to take place from October 28 to November 4. Although the festival had previously announced the cancellation of all celebratory activities and the immediate start of the official competition, the ministry's cancellation decision came as a shocking surprise, especially to participants.
Director Ibrahim Latif, who was set to participate with his film "Fawfah" in the official competition, told Reuters, "The decision to cancel the activities of the 34th Carthage Film Days is hasty and should be reversed from cancellation to postponement." He added, "The decision surprised all filmmakers," noting that it did not take into account the uniqueness of the Carthage Film Days and Tunisian cinema, which has always defended humanitarian issues, particularly the Palestinian cause.
He stressed that the presence of Palestinian director Mohammad Bakri with his film "Jenin, Jenin" at the opening is central to supporting and advocating for the cause, and it was also planned to honor Palestinian director Hani Abu Asad. For his part, film critic Khmis Khayati stated that the cancellation of the festival "is like striking a historic festival that has not stopped since 1966 in its core." He added in a statement to Reuters that while canceling the opening and any celebratory elements may be acceptable, canceling the festival itself is unacceptable. He continued, "The festival could have been utilized to support the cause and convey messages of resistance through discussions and seminars as part of the festival."
