The Algerian Senate has unanimously approved two laws, the Military Justice Law and the amended Penal Code Law, during a public session on October 7, 2026. The session was chaired by Senate President Azouz Nasseri, with the attendance of Minister of Relations with Parliament Najiiba Jilali, Minister of Justice Hafiz Akhtam, and others. The laws aim to enhance the country's legal framework and align with the 2020 constitution.
The Military Justice Law, comprising 360 articles, is part of the reforms initiated by the President of the Republic, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and Minister of National Defense. The law seeks to address practical shortcomings in military judicial activity, keep pace with national legal developments, and strengthen the convergence between military and general laws. It also focuses on promoting fair trial principles and two-level litigation.
The law's main provisions revolve around six key areas: determining the foundations of military justice, granting the head of military prosecution powers, organizing military judicial bodies, defining their jurisdiction, regulating military penal procedures, and establishing applicable penal sanctions. Minister of Justice Hafiz Akhtam presented an overview of the law's key provisions before its approval.
The approved laws reflect the government's efforts to modernize and harmonize the country's legal system. The Penal Code Law amends and complements the 1966 ordinance, taking into account the evolution of the national legal framework. The reforms aim to consolidate the principles of a state based on law and rights.
The new laws will contribute to enhancing the independence of the judiciary and promoting the rule of law in Algeria. They are expected to improve the country's judicial system, ensuring fair trials and better protection of human rights. The laws also reflect the government's commitment to implementing the provisions of the 2020 constitution.
The Senate's approval of these laws demonstrates the government's resolve to pursue its reform agenda. The laws will now be implemented, and their impact will be monitored by various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and human rights groups.
The Algerian government has been working to strengthen its institutions and promote the rule of law. The approval of these laws is a significant step in this direction, and their effective implementation will be crucial in enhancing the country's judicial system and protecting human rights.
Key points
- The Algerian Senate has approved the Military Justice Law and the amended Penal Code Law with 360 articles.
- The laws aim to enhance the country's legal framework and align with the 2020 constitution.
- The reforms focus on promoting fair trial principles, two-level litigation, and the use of technology in military judicial proceedings.
