The Algerian judiciary handed down a verdict on Monday, sentencing the son of former Prime Minister Ali Benflis to 15 years and 7 months in prison, along with fines of approximately $7,500 each, in a corruption case.
The accused individuals were prosecuted in a corruption case related to the leaking of tender documents prepared by the state-owned Algerian Airlines for the acquisition of 15 aircraft.
The Attorney General at the Criminal Court of Dar El Beida in the Algerian capital had originally sought the death penalty for the primary accused, who is the son of the former Prime Minister Ali Benflis. Additionally, 20-year sentences were requested for both a member of the Algerian Airlines procurement team and a flight attendant, with fines of $15,000 imposed on each of the three accused.
According to the Algerian newspaper “El Chourouk,” the charges brought against the three defendants include “espionage, treason, attempting to undermine the country’s stability and security, and financing the election campaign in an attempt to secure the presidential seat for the accused’s father.”
In September 2022, Algerian Airlines launched an international tender for the purchase of 15 new passenger aircraft, four months after the Cabinet approved an expansion of its fleet to open new routes.
The state-owned company revealed that the offers included aircraft in three different sizes: 5 aircraft of the “200 A” category, three aircraft of the “200 B” category, 5 aircraft of the “300” category, and two aircraft of the “400” category.
This high-profile corruption case in Algeria has garnered significant attention due to the involvement of a former Prime Minister’s son. The verdict sends a strong message about the country’s commitment to combating corruption at all levels of government and society.
Corruption has been a persistent issue in Algeria, and the government has been taking steps to address it. Cases like this one demonstrate the seriousness with which corruption is being pursued and punished. The judiciary’s decision to hand down prison sentences and fines underscores the determination to hold individuals accountable for corrupt practices.
The acquisition of new aircraft by Algerian Airlines was a significant development for the country’s aviation industry. However, the corruption allegations surrounding the tender process have raised concerns about transparency and accountability in government contracts.
Efforts to combat corruption in Algeria are ongoing, and cases like this serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding ethical standards and the rule of law in the country’s governance and business practices.
