The Algerian justice system has decided to activate a complaint filed by three lawyers against Deputy Naïma Salhi for inciting racial hatred and calling for murder. The complaint, filed in June 2019, was lodged after Salhi made racist and hateful publications, including calls to murder and threats against her daughter if she spoke Kabyle. The three lawyers, who filed the complaint with the Boumerdès court, were recently heard by the Cheraga gendarmerie brigade.
According to one of the lawyers, Salim Chait, he and his colleagues were summoned to the gendarmerie on March 5, 2020, and were informed that the purpose of the summons was related to the complaint against Salhi. The lawyers reiterated the facts outlined in their complaint, which included Salhi's hateful publications on her official Facebook page. They expressed hope that the investigation would proceed and bring an end to Salhi's "political delinquency," which they claim has been protected by impunity.
Salhi, the head of the small Equité et Proclamation (PEP) party, has been known for her inflammatory statements, particularly against the Amazigh language, which she has referred to as a "dialect that aims to sow discord among Algerians." Her comments sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for her to be held accountable. The activation of the complaint against her comes after the implementation of a law that criminalizes hate speech, ordered by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
Despite the progress made in the case, Salhi's prosecution is not guaranteed, as she enjoys parliamentary immunity. To proceed with the case, the justice system will need to request that her immunity be lifted, which will require a vote from her fellow deputies. Historically, the Algerian parliament has rejected requests to lift immunity from deputies facing corruption charges, making it uncertain whether Salhi will face trial.
The three lawyers who filed the complaint have expressed their determination to see the case through to its conclusion, emphasizing that racism is a crime and not an opinion. They have vowed to pursue those who promote hate speech and bring them to justice. The case against Salhi has garnered significant attention, particularly among the Kabyle community, which has been targeted by her hateful rhetoric.
Salhi's statements have not only sparked outrage but also highlighted the sensitive issue of language and identity in Algeria. Her comments on the Amazigh language and her threats against her daughter have been widely condemned, with many calling for greater protections for minority languages and cultures. The case has also raised questions about the limits of free speech and the role of politicians in promoting hate speech.
As the investigation into Salhi's actions continues, many are watching to see whether the Algerian justice system will ultimately hold her accountable for her words. The case has significant implications for the country's approach to hate speech and racism, and whether those who promote such ideologies will be brought to justice.
Key points
- The Algerian justice system has activated a complaint against Deputy Naïma Salhi for inciting racial hatred and calling for murder.
- Salhi's prosecution is not guaranteed due to her parliamentary immunity, which will need to be lifted for the case to proceed.
- The case has significant implications for Algeria's approach to hate speech and racism, and whether those who promote such ideologies will be held accountable.
