Algeria's Minister of Justice, Lotfi Boudjemaâ, has presented two draft laws to the National People's Assembly, aimed at amending the country's penal code and military justice code. The proposed laws seek to introduce the death penalty for individuals convicted of arson and child abduction. The draft laws were presented to the Assembly's Committee on Legal, Administrative, and Liberties Affairs, following a preparatory meeting on September 20, 2026.
The proposed laws are a response to growing concerns over crime and public safety in Algeria. Recent arson attacks have caused significant damage and loss of life, particularly in the Kabylie region. The government has described these attacks as "crimes of trahison" and "attacks on the integrity of the national territory." The draft laws aim to strengthen deterrence and protect people, property, and national wealth.
Under the proposed laws, individuals convicted of arson will face the death penalty if they are found to have intentionally set fire to forests, fields, trees, or woodlands. The laws also provide for harsher penalties for individuals who commit arson attacks on public or private property, with sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years' imprisonment. The government has cited a recent surge in arson attacks, which have caused significant damage and loss of life.
The proposed laws also aim to protect children from abduction, torture, and sexual assault. Individuals convicted of these crimes will face the death penalty, without the possibility of reduced sentences. The government has described these crimes as "grave" and "unacceptable," and has emphasized the need for stronger laws to protect children.
The draft laws have been met with opposition from human rights activists, who argue that the death penalty is not an effective deterrent and can lead to miscarriages of justice. However, the government has defended the proposed laws, citing the need for stronger measures to combat crime and protect public safety.
The proposed laws are part of a broader effort to strengthen Algeria's justice system and protect its citizens. The government has emphasized its commitment to fighting crime and promoting public safety, and has cited the need for stronger laws to achieve these goals.
The draft laws are expected to be debated and voted on by the National People's Assembly in the coming weeks. If passed, they will mark a significant shift in Algeria's approach to crime and punishment, and will have major implications for the country's justice system.
Key points
- The proposed laws aim to introduce the death penalty for arson and child abduction, amid growing concerns over crime and public safety in Algeria.
- The draft laws have been met with opposition from human rights activists, who argue that the death penalty is not an effective deterrent.
- The proposed laws are part of a broader effort to strengthen Algeria's justice system and protect its citizens.
