Tunisian TV Show Faces Backlash Over Claims of Cancer Treatment Through Magic
An episode of the controversial show "Promax" on the channel "Al Hiwar Al Tunisi" has ignited significant criticism in Tunisia after featuring individuals who claimed to cure incurable diseases, particularly cancer, through magic and sorcery.
The episode aired last Sunday night and highlighted "cancer treatment" through unscientific methods, where guests asserted they could heal patients with malignant tumors using techniques outside of modern medicine, such as "magic" and "sorcery." This prompted widespread condemnation from both medical professionals and the public.
* Medical Professionals File Lawsuit
The Tunisian Medical Association expressed strong disapproval of the episode's content, warning that such presentations could endanger public health and mislead citizens, particularly those seeking effective cancer treatments. In an official statement, the association emphasized that effective treatment of this disease requires approved and scientifically validated medical protocols, noting that reliance on unscientific methods could expose patients to serious risks and delay necessary treatment.
* "Public Misinformation"
The association stressed that the program's invitation to individuals promoting cancer treatment through non-medical methods constitutes a promotion of misleading alternative medicine, potentially exacerbating patients' health situations and leading them to make ill-informed decisions. They added that such programs pave the way for the spread of unrecognized "traditional medicine" lacking scientific validation.
* Response from Host Samir Al-Wafi
In defense of the episode, host Samir Al-Wafi stated that it was merely a presentation of real stories from Tunisian life. He asserted that the program included visual warnings during the broadcast indicating that the show's direction does not endorse or recommend the guests' opinions, urging viewers to consult specialized medical professionals. Al-Wafi further mentioned that previous episodes had highlighted the successes of Tunisian doctors in treating various diseases, particularly cancer.
* Tunisian Law: Crimes of Magic Considered "Deception"
It is noteworthy that Tunisian law does not explicitly address crimes of magic and sorcery but categorizes them as part of "deceptive crimes." Article 291 of the penal code states that anyone using fraudulent means or claiming supernatural abilities to convince others of fictitious projects faces penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
While the program continues to be a topic of extensive debate, the case raises questions about the role of media in presenting content that adheres to scientific and health standards, as well as the challenges of balancing freedom of expression with the responsibility to protect public health.
