Democracy News

Algerian President Announces Constitutional Reforms
April 16, 2011
By: Carlos Aramayo | Printer Friendly

On April 15, Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika declared an initiative for sweeping constitutional and political reforms in order to increase the role of democracy in the African nation, BBC News reports. The announcement, which came in a nationally televised address, was seen as a progressive step for the country in the wake of political protests across the Middle East and North Africa. However, unlike other neighboring nations, the protests in Algeria have been relatively small, reduced to local gatherings in the capital city of Algiers.

 In his address, Bouteflika announced that a commission composed of experts in constitutional law will revise the country's constitution. "It (the commission) will make proposals in compliance with the fundamental values of our society, before submitting them for approval by the parliament or to your vote by referendum," Bouteflika said, according to state media.

Bouteflika also pledged to make changes to current electoral law, ensure fairness in the country's elections, and work to improve relations between opposing political parties before presidential election in 2014. He also promised to improve media relations in the country by introducing a new information law that would decrease fines for defamation and allow the release of currently imprisoned journalists.

In February 2011, Algerian Foreign Minister Mourad Medelci announced the government’s decision to end the 19-year-old state of emergency laws amidst growing protests.. The state of emergency has been in place since 1992, when the military canceled elections fearing a win by religious fundamentalists.

BBC News additionally reports that Bouteflika stated that the government would take steps to create “credible” political reform that will lead to the consolidation of “democracy in Algeria.” However, Bouteflika did not discuss possible term limits upon himself.  

Political analyst Mohamed Lagab cautiously welcomed Bouteflika’s speech. “Acknowledging that political reforms – and not only social and economic reforms – will help to solve the crisis is key,” the Algiers University academic told Reuters. “But Bouteflika did not give a deadline for the reforms he announced and he did not sack the government yet,” he added.

According to Human Rights Watch, Algeria's government controls state broadcast outlets and sharply restricts private newspapers, with journalists facing prosecution for criticism of public officials. It says police also harass human rights activists who have campaigned for accountability for people killed or "forcibly disappeared" during the insurgency.

For previous news of Algeria, please see:
Algeria’s 19-Year-Old State of Emergency to Be Lifted

Sources:
BBC News – Algeria leader Bouteflika pledges constitutional reform

Voice of America – Algeria's President Announces Democratic Reforms

Human Rights Watch – Algeria: Restore Civil Liberties

Reuters – Algerian president promises major political reforms