Algerian Activists Detained Amid Pro-Democracy Protests
In a troubling turn of events, eight Algerian activists from the pro-democracy protests that led to the ousting of the country’s former president have been placed in pre-trial detention. This move comes as a blow to the Hirak movement, which has been advocating for deep reforms in Algeria since its inception in February 2019.
The activists were arrested in Bejaia, located 220 kilometers east of the capital city of Algiers, between July 8 and 15. Among them is Mira Mokhnache, a university professor and prominent human rights defender. Mokhnache, along with seven others, was placed in pre-trial detention by an investigating judge at the Sidi M’Hamed court in downtown Algiers.
The Hirak movement gained momentum in 2019 and played a pivotal role in forcing former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika to step down after decades in power. However, the movement faced challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to a decline in its activities.
The National Committee for the Release of Detainees (CNLD) reported that one of the activists who was detained had previously spent three years in prison for his involvement in the pro-democracy protests. Additionally, a 16-year-old whistleblower who exposed the conditions in Algerian political prisons on social media was among those released under judicial supervision.
Local media sources indicated that the group of activists is being prosecuted under a 2021 law amendment related to “terrorism.” This move has raised concerns among human rights organizations and the international community.
Last year, a United Nations expert called for the repeal of the article that broadened the definition of terrorism in Algeria. The UN Special Rapporteur Clement Voule urged Algerian authorities to pardon individuals who have been convicted or detained for their participation in the pro-democracy protests. Voule emphasized the need to address the climate of fear created by the government’s crackdown on dissent.
Despite calls for reform and the release of detainees, dozens of people remain in custody in Algeria for their involvement in the Hirak movement or human rights activism. Amnesty International has criticized the Algerian government for escalating its repression of peaceful dissent, five years after the protests first erupted.
Heba Morayef, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director, described the situation as a tragedy, noting that Algerian authorities continue to suppress voices calling for political change and reforms. As Algeria prepares for presidential elections scheduled for September 7, concerns about political freedoms and human rights violations persist.
The detention of these activists underscores the challenges facing civil society in Algeria and highlights the ongoing struggle for democratic rights and freedoms. It is essential for the Algerian government to respect the rights of its citizens and uphold international standards of human rights as the country navigates its political future.