The Algerian Independent National Electoral Authority (ANIE) has issued a reminder to all candidates from political parties and independent lists, as well as other stakeholders involved in the electoral process, about the rules and regulations governing the electoral campaign. This comes as the country prepares for the local elections scheduled for November 28, 2026. The ANIE emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to the legal provisions and regulations.
The electoral campaign for the members of the communal and wilaya popular assemblies is set to begin on November 5, 2026, and will conclude on November 24, 2026. According to the ANIE, these dates are in accordance with Article 73 of the organic law related to the electoral regime, as amended and supplemented. The authority stressed that no campaign activities are allowed outside of this specified period.
The ANIE highlighted the need for candidates and stakeholders to comply with the legal provisions related to campaign ethics and behavior. This includes refraining from hate speech and any form of discrimination. Furthermore, the use of foreign languages during the campaign is prohibited. The authority also pointed out that using public or private goods and means for electoral propaganda, except as provided by law, is strictly forbidden.
In addition to these regulations, the ANIE reminded candidates that using places of worship, public institutions and administrations, educational establishments, and training institutions for electoral propaganda is prohibited. The authority also emphasized that the misuse of state attributes is not allowed and that candidates must avoid any violent, disloyal, injurious, dishonorable, illegal, or immoral behavior.
The ANIE also addressed the aspect of media and electoral advertising, as well as the use of public goods and spaces. Authorized audiovisual media participating in the coverage of the electoral campaign are required to ensure an equitable distribution of airtime among candidates. The ANIE, in coordination with the National Independent Audiovisual Regulatory Authority, will ensure compliance with these provisions.
Candidates and stakeholders are also required to respect the legal provisions governing the organization of public gatherings and meetings, while abstaining from any commercial advertising procedures for propaganda purposes during the campaign period. Moreover, the publication and dissemination of polls on voters' intentions 72 hours before the voting date are prohibited.
Finally, the ANIE noted that public spaces reserved for displaying candidatures are allocated equitably within electoral districts. It warned that any form of advertising outside designated areas is strictly prohibited. By outlining these rules, the ANIE aims to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process for the upcoming local elections in Algeria.
Key points
- The Algerian Independent National Electoral Authority (ANIE) has outlined the rules and regulations for the electoral campaign ahead of the November 28 local elections.
- The electoral campaign will run from November 5 to November 24, 2026, and candidates must adhere to strict guidelines to ensure a fair process.
- The ANIE emphasized the importance of avoiding hate speech, discrimination, and the misuse of state attributes during the campaign.
