Algerian Lawyers Protest Proposed Law

A group of Algerian lawyers went on strike Tuesday, protesting against proposed changes in attorney regulations which they say will limit their independence and powers in court. The strike was due to last three days and was called by the National Union of Bar Associations of Algeria. Fatima-Zohra Benbraham told AFP that the goal was to suspend all participation by lawyers in court cases. Benbraham said the draft law will “limit the rights of lawyers” up against a judge and the public prosecutor.

Several cases due to be heard Tuesday were postponed to a later date, while state radio reported that the lawyers’ strike was being followed “100 percent” in Bejaia, 160 miles east of Algiers. Lawyers previously held a protest at the end of June to demand the withdrawal of the draft law when Justice Minister Tayeb Belaiz presented it to parliament’s judicial affairs committee.