Algeria: University teachers & students decry use of judiciary as repression tool

Algerian university teachers, students, associations and citizens have denounced the use of the judiciary system by the authorities as a tool of repression to muzzle and intimidate vocal critics demanding basic freedoms, a civilian democratic state, and departure of the ruling military junta.

“The use of judiciary as an instrument of repression is a violation of fundamental freedoms and is not a solution to the chronic problems suffered by society”, said the National Coordination of Algerian Universities for Change in a press release.

Many Algerians of all walks of life have been prosecuted, arbitrarily detained, or imprisoned for standing up for their basic rights, said the Union of Universities.

Algerian citizens are deprived, by an authoritarian and oppressive power, of their right to freedom of expression, to assembly and to voice their opinions on the governance of their country and of the institutions that are supposed to serve them and embody their aspirations, added the Union.

The Union warns against disastrous consequences of suffocating and trampling the aspirations of Algerian people seeking dignity, democracy and better living conditions.

Recently, a group of political parties, personalities and representatives of civil society have called for the formation of a Front to fight against repression and for democracy & freedom.

Several Algerian and international human rights NGOs have condemned continuing detention and prosecution of peaceful protesters, journalists, activists and citizens for exercising their rights to peaceful assembly and expression relating to the popular Hirak protest movement.