Algerian President Outlines Reforms to Strengthen Local Governance in Algeria
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune delivered a comprehensive address during a meeting between the government and provincial governors, emphasizing the pivotal role of local authorities in bridging the gap between the state and its citizens.
“The local communities are the frontline between the state and the citizen, and they represent the foundation of the state,” President Tebboune stated.
He announced a long-overdue revision of the provincial and municipal law, aiming to “reflect the will of the people locally” after decades of independence. The revised law will include significant changes to powers, resources, and the classification of municipalities.
“This law seeks to establish financial and economic balance between wealthy and less affluent municipalities,” the president explained. He also proposed that the state take over the management of certain facilities to relieve municipalities of financial burdens.
A new bank will be created to fund municipal and provincial projects, while the revised law will grant full authority to elected officials. “In the new legal framework, we proposed giving the president of the provincial popular council the status of financial officer so that local representatives become fully empowered,” Algerian President said.
The president encouraged municipalities to delegate public services like waste management to local institutions, with legal mechanisms in place for performance accountability. Additionally, he highlighted the impact of shadow area reforms, which have benefited over 6.5 million Algerians.
Tebboune criticized former officials who neglected these areas. “Some of those whose duties were terminated believed shadow area development was beyond their responsibilities. Let it be clear that we are all in service of the people, from the president to the simplest public servant,” he affirmed.
The president addressed Algeria’s resilience, warning detractors: “We will protect this country, which flows with the blood of martyrs. Let no one think Algeria can be undermined by a mere hashtag.”
In his directives to governors, president Tebboune called for the completion of building facades and for legal frameworks to help citizens finalize their construction projects. He urged local officials to prioritize engaging with citizens, especially the youth, and to provide land for small-scale professional activities.
“We are aware of remnants of the corrupt regime who use propaganda to intimidate governors and local officials from fulfilling their duties. Let me remind governors that they are under protection, as long as their administrative errors are not outright corruption,” the president emphasized.
He also outlined key initiatives to address water scarcity, including the operation of five seawater desalination plants before Ramadan and the expansion of wastewater recycling programs.
Lastly, Algerian President reiterated his commitment to fighting bureaucracy through comprehensive digitalization, which is nearing completion, to improve citizens’ daily lives.
