Algerian President Abdelmadjid Taboun, whose country has observed a moratorium on the death penalty since 1993, stressed yesterday, Sunday, that he intends to begin applying it as soon as possible in arson cases, following a series of deadly fires that swept through the northern part of the North African country.
Addressing the Minister of Justice during a broad-based meeting on the fires, attended by many senior political and military officials, the Algerian head of state ordered that “the penal code be amended” by September 15.
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Mr. Tamboun demanded that the bill be drafted and approved by the government and that parliament consider it “quickly,” under an expedited procedure.
“We will reinstate the death penalty for arsonists,” he said.
“Executions will take place” once the legal remedies of those convicted have been exhausted, he insisted during the meeting, according to footage from public television.
Algeria has declared three days of national mourning and postponed all cultural events and sporting events due to the recent fires.
According to official figures released so far, at least 12 people have lost their lives in the forest fires near Bejaia, Zizel, and Tizi Ouzou.
However, authorities fear that the actual death toll is much higher.
Health Minister Mohamed Sadik Aït Mesoudén stated on Friday that the toll from the fires is “very heavy,” without, however, citing a specific number.
Authorities announced that several suspects had been arrested on arson charges.
“No one can make Algeria bow its head,” said Mr. Tamboun, who also promised the families of fire victims who lost their homes, possessions, and livelihoods that they would be fully compensated by the state by September 15.
The deadly fires have caused intense emotional distress throughout the country. A large crowd attended a mass funeral for the victims at a cemetery in Zizel, according to footage from public television and local news websites.
Since last Wednesday evening, shocking images have been circulating on social media, showing residents trapped by the flames in this coastal and mountainous region, known for its idyllic landscapes.
The fires were fueled by strong winds and the heat wave sweeping the country. The situation is being exacerbated by increasingly frequent droughts, which are linked to climate change.
Source: APE-MPE
