Algeria's Independent National Election Authority has clarified its stance on the collection of individual signatures for party alliances ahead of the upcoming local elections on November 28, 2026. In a response to a request from five political parties, the authority emphasized that signature forms must be signed in favor of the coalition, not individual parties. This move aims to ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
The five political parties - Tajdid, Jebha El Djadida, El Fajr El Djadid, Union of Democratic and Social Forces, and National Front for Struggle - had requested permission to submit joint candidacy files under the coalition's name, using individual signature forms collected by each party. They argued that this would facilitate the process and encourage citizen participation. The parties also highlighted the significance of the local elections, which they see as an opportunity to renew municipal and provincial councils and restore trust in state institutions.
The Independent National Election Authority's decision is based on Article 178 of the Organic Law on the Electoral System, which allows for alliances between two or more parties to support a single list. However, the authority stressed that this does not permit the collection of signatures for individual parties and then using them to form an alliance. Instead, signatures must be collected in favor of the coalition from the outset.
The authority's clarification comes as political parties prepare for the local elections and seek to finalize their participation strategies. The parties are exploring options for participating in the elections, either through individual lists or alliances. The upcoming elections are seen as crucial for the country's democratic process and for addressing issues such as voter apathy.
The five parties that requested clarification from the election authority expressed concerns about voter apathy and the need to revitalize citizen engagement in the electoral process. They argued that allowing coalitions to use individual signature forms would help increase participation and restore trust in state institutions. The parties also emphasized the importance of the local elections in the context of current international challenges.
The Independent National Election Authority's decision aims to ensure that the electoral process is fair, transparent, and in line with the country's laws and regulations. By requiring signature forms to be signed in favor of the coalition, the authority seeks to prevent potential irregularities and ensure that the voices of citizens are accurately represented.
The local elections on November 28, 2026, will be an important test for Algeria's democratic process. The elections will provide an opportunity for citizens to participate in the selection of their local representatives and will help shape the country's future. The Independent National Election Authority's clarification on the rules for party alliances is a crucial step in ensuring that the electoral process is fair, transparent, and free.
Key points
- The Independent National Election Authority has ruled that signature forms for party alliances must be signed in favor of the coalition, not individual parties.
- The decision aims to ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
- The local elections on November 28, 2026, will be an important test for Algeria's democratic process.
