Algeria proposes death penalty for arson and child abduction

The Algerian government is moving forward with a bill to amend the Penal Code, which proposes the introduction of the death penalty for specific serious crimes, including arson and child abduction. Justice Minister Lotfi Boudjemaa defended the project before the People's National Assembly (APN), stating that the state is determined to protect citizens and their property following traumatic events such as last summer's fires.

To ensure fair trials, the Minister emphasized that several judicial safeguards are in place. These include the mandatory assistance of a lawyer, psychiatric expertise, and investigations into a defendant's history. Furthermore, the reform includes mechanisms for contesting judicial decisions through various levels of appeal. The bill is scheduled to be put to a vote by the members of the APN.