Military Justice Code Adopted, Aligns with 2020 Constitution
The Algerian National People's Assembly (APN) has officially adopted the new law establishing the Code of Military Justice. This significant legislative measure ensures the military legal framework aligns with the provisions of the 2020 constitution, reflecting the deep reforms initiated by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Justice Minister Lotfi Boudjemaa had presented the draft law to the National People's Assembly, emphasizing its role in modernizing the national legal system.
The newly adopted code aims to address practical shortcomings identified within military judicial activity and keep pace with developments in the national legal framework, particularly following the penal procedures law. It constitutes a comprehensive review of military justice, preserving established gains such as fair trial principles, two-tier litigation, and the expanded use of information and communication technologies within military courts. The law explicitly defines military justice as specialized criminal justice, operating in the name of the people under the Supreme Court's control, based on principles of legality, fair trial, and respect for human dignity and rights.
Key provisions of the law outline the organization and composition of military judicial bodies, establishing military courts of first instance and military appeal councils in each military region. It further defines military offenses, corresponding penalties, and unifies legal terminology. The legislation also strengthens the role of lawyers throughout investigation and trial phases and introduces new judicial roles, including a first assistant military attorney general and a first assistant military public prosecutor. APN President Khalida Boufedeche underscored that this legislative approval demonstrates the Assembly's commitment to national transformations, citizen protection, and the enhancement of national security and stability.
