Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has instructed officials to prepare legislation that would allow the death penalty for those who deliberately start forest fires, following a series of blazes that have killed 12 people.
The government has taken a tough step following the recent forest fires in Algeria that resulted in loss of life. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune called for amendments to the Criminal Code to increase penalties for those who deliberately set forested areas on fire.
According to state television, Tebboune chaired a meeting attended by senior civilian and military officials to assess the damage caused by the recent fires and discuss measures to prevent similar incidents.
During the meeting, Tebboune instructed the Minister of Justice to submit a draft bill proposing amendments to the Criminal Code by September 15.
Death penalty to be applied after judicial proceedings
Under the planned legislation, penalties for those who deliberately set forested areas on fire would be significantly increased, with the death penalty added to the range of possible punishments.
State television reported that the death penalty would be carried out only after all legally prescribed appeals and judicial proceedings have been completed.
Algeria has the death penalty but does not carry out executions
Although the death penalty remains part of Algeria’s criminal legislation, the country has not carried out any executions since 1993.
Under current laws, those found responsible for starting forest fires can face up to 30 years in prison, while life imprisonment can be imposed in certain cases.
If the new legislation ordered by President Tebboune comes into force, the death penalty would be added to the available sanctions for deliberately setting forest fires.
