Algiers, Algeria – (African Boulevard News) – A United Nations (UN) expert has called on Algeria to release and pardon pro-democracy activists who are still detained in the country following the Hirak protests that shook the nation in 2019. The protests, which began in February 2019, led to the ousting of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika two months later.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the UN Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, Clément Nyaletsossi Voule, emphasized the importance of respecting the rights of those who exercise their freedom to protest peacefully. He expressed concern about the ongoing imprisonment of individuals linked to the Hirak movement and called on the Algerian government to release and pardon them.
“The Algerian authorities must ensure that the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association are respected, protected, and fulfilled,” Voule stated. “Imprisonment should not be used as a tool to silence dissenting voices and deter individuals from exercising their rights.”
Dozens of individuals are still detained in Algeria in connection with the Hirak protests, despite calls from human rights organizations and activists for their release. The arrests and prosecutions have raised concerns among the international community about the state of democracy and human rights in the country.
In recent years, Algeria has faced criticism for its treatment of activists and journalists who have spoken out against the government. Freedom of expression has been restricted, and those who dare to voice their opinions often face severe consequences. The UN expert’s call for the release and pardon of pro-democracy convicts highlights the need for Algeria to address these issues and uphold its international human rights obligations.
The Hirak movement, characterized by its peaceful nature, demanded political reforms and an end to corruption in the country. It brought together people from various walks of life, united in their desire for change and a more transparent and accountable government. The movement gained significant traction across Algeria, attracting widespread support both domestically and internationally.
The UN expert’s appeal comes at a crucial time for Algeria, as the country seeks to rebuild and strengthen its democratic institutions following the political upheaval of 2019. It is essential for the Algerian government to heed the call for reform and take concrete steps towards ensuring the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.
As pressure mounts on Algeria to address the concerns raised by the international community, the fate of those still held in detention remains uncertain. The world will be watching to see if the Algerian government will respond to the UN expert’s plea and provide a path towards reconciliation and justice for all those involved in the Hirak movement.
URLs:
– africanews.com/2023/09/27/un-expert-urges-algeria-to-pardon-pro-democracy-convicts/
– google.com/search?q=UN+expert+urges+Algeria+to+pardon+pro-democracy+convicts
