Algeria seeks death penalty for arsonists after deadly forest fires

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has expressed his desire to reintroduce the death penalty for individuals who set forest fires, following a series of deadly blazes that have claimed at least 12 lives. The president instructed the justice ministry to amend the criminal law to include capital punishment for arsonists. Although capital punishment is still present in Algeria's penal code for certain offenses, no executions have been carried out since 1993.

Over 100 wildfires have been reported in recent days, primarily in the north-east of the country, though most have been brought under control. On Saturday, Tebboune hinted that foul play could not be ruled out, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations, particularly given the intensity of the fires. He set a deadline of September 15 for amendments to the law that would allow for the death penalty for anyone found guilty of intentionally starting a fire in forested areas.

Currently, arson in forests carries penalties of up to 30 years' imprisonment or life imprisonment under specific circumstances. Intense heatwaves swept through northern Algeria last week, leading to extensive destruction, injuries to several people, and the displacement of thousands. Algerian civil authorities continued to combat the fires on Sunday afternoon, with the Algerian Press Service noting that 18 out of the 19 fires that had occurred in the preceding 24 hours had been extinguished.

Tebboune pledged compensation to affected families and repairs to damaged homes and essential services. He also promised investigations into the extent of the damage and losses caused by the fires. While forest fires are common during the summer months in Algeria, climate change has intensified the severity of recent wildfires.