Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has ordered the introduction of the death penalty for people convicted of deliberately setting forest fires, following wildfires that recently killed 12 people across the country.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting on Sunday (30 August) attended by senior civilian and military officials, where authorities reviewed the impact of the fires and discussed measures to prevent similar disasters.
According to state television, Tebboune instructed the justice minister to submit proposed amendments to Algeria's penal code by 15 September that would allow capital punishment for those found guilty of intentionally starting fires in forested areas.
The move comes after a series of wildfires swept through parts of Algeria, claiming lives and causing damage in several regions.
Authorities have not yet released details of the proposed legislation, but state media said the tougher penalties are intended to deter acts of arson and strengthen protections for the country's forests and rural communities.
Under current Algerian law, deliberately starting forest fires can result in prison sentences of up to 30 years. In some cases, offenders can already face life imprisonment depending on the scale of the damage and loss of life.
The proposed legal changes would make the death penalty the most severe punishment available for such crimes.
Although Algeria retains capital punishment in its criminal code for several offences, the country has not carried out an execution since 1993.
State television reported that any death sentence handed down under the proposed legislation would only be carried out after all appeals and judicial procedures had been completed.
Human rights groups have long called for Algeria to formally abolish the death penalty, while supporters argue it should remain available for the most serious crimes.
The government's discussions also focused on recovery efforts following the recent fires and measures aimed at reducing future risks.
Wildfires are a recurring challenge in Algeria, particularly during the hot summer months when high temperatures and dry conditions increase the risk of blazes spreading rapidly through forested areas.
The latest proposal signals a determination by Algerian authorities to pursue tougher penalties against those accused of intentionally causing fires, as the country seeks to prevent further loss of life and environmental damage.
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