Algeria's President Tebboune announces intention to reinstate death penalty for arsonists after deadly wildfires

On August 30, 2026, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune announced his intention to reinstate the application of the death penalty for arsonists, in response to the deadly wildfires that have devastated eastern and northern Algeria this summer. During a meeting with the Minister of Justice and senior civil and military officials, Tebboune ordered a modification of the Penal Code before September 15, with the proposal to go through the government and then be studied rapidly by Parliament. He stated, 'We reinstate the death penalty for arsonists' and insisted that executions would be carried out once all appeals are exhausted. Algeria has observed a moratorium on the death penalty since 1993. The country has declared three days of official mourning and canceled all cultural festivities and sports competitions. Official figures report at least 12 deaths linked to the fires near Béjaïa, Jijel, and Tizi-Ouzou, but local sources fear the toll could be much higher. The Health Minister described the toll as 'very heavy' without giving a number. Authorities have arrested several people suspected of starting fires. Tebboune also promised full state compensation for victims who lost homes, furniture, livestock, or fruit trees before September 15. The fires, fueled by strong winds and intense heat, have caused deep emotion in the country, with collective burials held in Jijel.