Title: Amira Bouraoui and Mustapha Bendjama sentenced: injustice persists in Algeria
Introduction :
In a new legal twist in Algeria, Franco-Algerian opponent Amira Bouraoui and journalist Mustapha Bendjama were convicted in absentia during a trial which raises many questions about the independence of justice in the country. This decision, rendered by the Constantine court, sentenced Amira Bouraoui to a 10-year prison sentence for “illegal exit from the territory”, while Mustapha Bendjama received a six-month sentence for allegedly helping Bouraoui escape to France. This affair raises serious concern about respect for human rights and freedom of expression in Algeria.
A contested conviction:
This conviction in absentia raises serious concerns about the legitimacy of the trial and the possibility for the accused to exercise their defense rights. The fact that Amira Bouraoui was not present during the trial raises questions about the transparency of the judicial process and the absence of an appropriate defense. Additionally, Mustapha Bendjama’s conviction raises questions about the government’s intention to silence dissenting voices and independent journalists.
A context of growing repression:
This conviction comes against a backdrop of growing repression in Algeria, where many activists and journalists are persecuted for expressing divergent opinions. The Hirak movement, which emerged in 2019 to demand democratic reforms, was repressed by Algerian authorities, and many peaceful protesters were arrested and imprisoned. This latest conviction reinforces fears of a regression of fundamental freedoms in Algeria.
An attack on freedom of expression and human rights:
The conviction of Amira Bouraoui and Mustapha Bendjama raises serious concerns about respect for freedom of expression and human rights in Algeria. It is essential to ensure an environment favorable to press freedom and to allow dissenting voices to express themselves freely without fear of reprisals. Governments must be held accountable for any violation of human rights and democratic principles, and the international community must play an active role in defending these principles.
Conclusion :
The conviction of Amira Bouraoui and Mustapha Bendjama is an eloquent reminder of the need to protect freedom of expression and human rights in Algeria. It is crucial to fight against all forms of injustice and to promote the transparency and independence of the judicial system. The international community must remain vigilant and exert pressure on the Algerian authorities to end the repression and guarantee respect for fundamental rights. Only a resolute commitment to human rights can allow Algeria to progress towards a just and democratic society.