The trial of Karim Tabbou, Secretary General of the unapproved UDS party, started at the Sidi M'Hamed court in the presence of a large crowd and around 100 lawyers. Tabbou has been in provisional detention since September 12. The courtroom was filled with supporters, including former Hirak detainee Lakhdar Bouregâa and recently acquitted Fodil Boumala. Tabbou was greeted with applause as he entered the courtroom.
The trial was briefly suspended for consultation on the constitutionality of the charges against Tabbou. The judge then invited Tabbou to the stand, but cut him off when he began to express his feelings about the accusations. Tabbou is charged with "undermining the morale of the army," "undermining national unity," and "incitement to violence." He has rejected all charges, stating that he is being prosecuted as a political activist rather than a citizen.
Tabbou expressed his frustration with the judicial process, stating that the justice system has been used as an instrument by the security services. He also questioned the validity of the charges, pointing out that the investigation lasted only 25 minutes. The prosecution's requisitory called for a four-year prison sentence and a 200,000 DA fine. Tabbou's lawyers will present their defense, with several scheduled to plead on his behalf.
During the trial, Tabbou engaged in a heated exchange with the judge, particularly when discussing the army. The judge intervened to cut him off. Tabbou also stated that he was opposed to all of Algeria's recent presidential mandates. His comments sparked a strong reaction from the judge, who firmly told him to stay on topic.
The trial has drawn significant attention, with a large crowd gathered outside the court and many supporters present in the courtroom. Tabbou's case is seen as a test of Algeria's judicial system and its handling of political dissent. The UDS party is not recognized by the Algerian authorities, and Tabbou's detention has been widely criticized by human rights groups.
The prosecution's call for a four-year prison sentence and a fine has sparked concerns about the potential consequences for Tabbou. His lawyers will continue to present their defense, and a verdict is expected in the coming days. The case has sparked widespread interest and debate in Algeria, with many questioning the charges against Tabbou and the judicial process.
The trial is ongoing, with several lawyers scheduled to plead on Tabbou's behalf. The case will continue to be closely watched by human rights groups and observers, who are concerned about the implications for Algeria's democratic freedoms.
Key points
- The trial of Karim Tabbou has begun in Algeria, with the prosecution calling for a four-year prison sentence.
- Tabbou is charged with undermining the morale of the army, undermining national unity, and incitement to violence.
- The trial has drawn significant attention, with a large crowd and many supporters present in the courtroom.
