Judicial chambers in Tunis have sentenced presidential candidate Ayachi Zemal to 12 years in prison in four published cases against him on charges of forging popular endorsements and banned him from voting, according to court spokesman Sami Samadhi.

On Monday, other criminal chambers examined nine published cases against Ayachi Zemal on suspicion of forging popular endorsements for the presidential elections, and decided to postpone five cases to a later date.

Zemal’s defence team confirmed that they will use all legal means to defend their client, including resorting to international justice.

Tunisia’s presidential elections will take place on 6 October, with incumbent President Kais Saied and candidates Zouhair Meghzawi and Ayachi Zemal competing.