ALGIERS — An Algerian court on May 26 sentenced three former presidential candidates — Ali Benflis, Abdelaziz Belaïd and Mohamed Benhamou — to 10 years in prison each for corruption-related offenses. The sentencing, held at the Sidi M’hamed court in Algiers, is part of a wider anti-corruption campaign targeting political and business figures connected to the administration of former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.
Charges and Trial Details
According to Algerian state media, the three were found guilty of abuse of office, illicit enrichment and misappropriation of public funds. Prosecutors alleged the men received illegal financial and administrative benefits during their political tenures or presidential campaigns. While the prosecution sought 15-year sentences, the court imposed 10-year prison terms and fines of five million Algerian dinars (about $37,000) each.
Background on the Defendants
Ali Benflis, a former prime minister and two-time presidential candidate in 2004 and 2014, was once seen as a leading opposition figure. Abdelaziz Belaïd, founder of the El Moustakbal Front party, ran in the 2014 and 2019 elections. Mohamed Benhamou, less prominent, also contested the 2019 election. All three had distanced themselves from Bouteflika’s government during or after their campaigns, but prosecutors tied their alleged offenses to financial activities from that period.
Part of a Broader Anti-Corruption Drive
The verdict is part of a string of cases launched since Bouteflika resigned in 2019 amid mass protests driven by the Hirak movement. Since then, Algerian authorities have prosecuted numerous former ministers, governors, business executives and military officials accused of corruption or abuse of power. Officials say the goal is to rebuild public trust and reinforce the rule of law.
According to the Algerian judiciary, dozens of corruption cases have been decided, with high-profile convictions including former prime ministers Ahmed Ouyahia and Abdelmalek Sellal.
Legal Response and Next Steps
Defense teams did not issue immediate statements following the verdicts. Under Algerian law, the convicted candidates have the right to appeal. Any appeals will be heard by the Algiers Court of Appeal, but no appeal dates have been announced yet.
According to Africa News, the sentencing of these former presidential hopefuls underscores Algeria’s continued efforts to hold political figures accountable and shows that no one is above the law as the country navigates its post-Bouteflika era.
