Exploring the Legacy of Political Choices in “My Father Killed Bourguiba”

In her sophomore feature, “My Father Killed Bourguiba,” Tunisian filmmaker Fatma Riahi takes us on a deeply personal journey that intertwines family history with the turbulent political landscape of Tunisia. This film is a poignant examination of how her father’s political decisions during a failed coup attempt against the nation’s first president, Habib Bourguiba, have reverberated through her life and the lives of her family members.

A Film Rooted in Personal Experience

Riahi collaborates with notable producers, including Dora Bouchoucha and Lina Chaabane of Nomadis Images, to bring this story to life. The film is not merely a recount of political events; it’s an exploration of the emotional and familial ramifications stemming from her father’s imprisonment after the coup’s failure in 1987.

Understanding the Complex Legacy

Delving into her family’s archives, Riahi uses personal photographs and letters exchanged with her father during his imprisonment to construct a narrative that reflects on:

• The motivations behind her father’s actions.
• The impact of his choices on her childhood.
• The broader implications for Tunisian society.

Riahi noted, “I grew up between two seemingly opposing ideas: the political vision my father believed in and the one Bourguiba defended.” This tension serves as the film’s backbone, illustrating the complexities of political beliefs and personal relationships.

Confronting Silence in the Face of Fear

For years, Riahi and her family remained silent about their struggles under the Ben Ali regime, a silence brought on by fear and stigma. However, the events following the 2011 revolution catalyzed a shift. Testifying before the Truth and Dignity Commission marked a pivotal moment for Riahi, transforming her perspective on storytelling and healing.

Bridging the Past and Present

Riahi’s reflections extend beyond her family’s history to her role as a mother. She recognizes that her choices will inevitably shape her children’s futures, much like her father’s choices influenced her own. She aims to foster openness and awareness in her children, stating:

• “I try not to pass on trauma, fear or sadness to my children.”
• “Learning history, practicing honesty and being encouraged to question the past may make them more aware, less afraid and less silent than we were.”

A Call for Understanding and Acceptance

Riahi hopes that her film will not only illuminate her family’s story but also encourage viewers to confront the difficult conversations surrounding Tunisia’s political divides. In her own words, she aspires to help others “understand each other and accept each other, even if we are different.”

The Thessaloniki Intl. Documentary Festival, where this film is being showcased, runs from March 5 to 15, and it promises to be a platform for important discussions about personal and political histories.

For a deeper understanding of this compelling narrative and its implications, I encourage you to read the original news article from Variety.