Algeria has completed its consular representation in France with three new appointments, though the ambassador's return remains postponed amid ongoing bilateral tensions.
Algeria's consular presence in France is now fully staffed with the appointment of three new consuls in Grenoble, Besançon, and Bordeaux. These appointments, formalized by a presidential decree on August 23 and published September 1, bring the total number of Algerian consulates in France to 18. The new consuls began their duties in May. This development signals a period of calm in bilateral relations, which have been strained for over two years following a diplomatic crisis.
The delay in announcing the consuls' appointments, relative to their start dates, was attributed to the standard procedure of awaiting host country approval and the previously tense diplomatic climate. A retired diplomat noted that France had previously obstructed the appointment of several Algerian consular officials. The completion of consular representation aims to ensure continued essential services for the large Algerian community residing in France.
The diplomatic crisis, which began over two years ago, saw France obstruct the work of eight Algerian consuls. This followed mutual expulsions of consular agents in April 2025, after an Algerian consular employee was arrested in Paris. While relations have since stabilized, the Algerian ambassador's absence from Paris indicates that full normalization has not yet been achieved, despite efforts to maintain consular services.
Why it mattersAlgerian citizens in France are affected by the completion of consular representation, ensuring continued access to essential services.
Read in ASJ →Algerian state enterprise ALRIM faces allegations of squandering public funds, abuse of office, and contract violations in a Rouiba Court trial.
The Public Prosecutor at Rouiba Court has requested maximum penalties of 10 years imprisonment for defendants in a corruption case involving ALRIM, a state-owned construction firm. The prosecution seeks the confiscation of all seized assets, with a verdict scheduled for September 8. Charges include squandering public funds, granting unjustified advantages, and violating procurement laws through abuse of official positions.
The defendants, including former ALRIM CEO T.M. and business operators A.A., L.H., and S.A., are accused of deliberate misappropriation of public funds, forging commercial documents, and exploiting influence. The case originated from a complaint filed by ALRIM against EHA Construction manager A.A. and his company.
ALRIM, a joint-stock company in metal structures, operates under the IMETAL group. EHA Construction specializes in construction work, material supply, and maintenance. The alleged acts are described by the prosecution as undermining the national economy through illicit financial dealings and contract irregularities.
Why it mattersInvestors are affected by the alleged corruption and contract violations at ALRIM, a state-owned enterprise, which could impact business operations and public funds.
Read in ASJ →Authorities have disrupted a large-scale drug trafficking ring with national reach and international connections, seizing a significant quantity of cannabis resin.
Gendarmes in Chlef have dismantled a criminal organization involved in drug trafficking across Algeria, seizing more than 71 kilograms of cannabis resin. The operation targeted a national network with cross-border operations, disrupting its ability to supply parallel markets within the country. The seized quantity indicates a sophisticated logistical operation involving transport, storage, and redistribution.
The National Gendarmerie Command announced the neutralization of the gang, which specialized in the illicit trade of narcotics. Investigations by Chlef elements traced the supply chain to the main organizers of the network. The scale of the seizure suggests substantial financing and coordination across multiple regions, highlighting the organization's extensive reach.
This action is part of Algeria's intensified efforts against drug trafficking and organized cross-border crime. Recent high-level security meetings have led to decisions to strengthen national anti-narcotics measures, including the creation of a specialized security body and the conversion of a military barracks into a high-security prison for major drug traffickers.
Why it mattersThe seizure of over 71kg of cannabis resin affects the illicit drug market within Algeria and disrupts criminal organizations involved in its trade.
Read in ASJ →Political parties have officially opened candidate nominations for upcoming local elections, emphasizing competence and experience to avoid past disqualifications.
Political parties in Algeria have begun accepting applications for the upcoming local elections, scheduled for November 28. This marks the start of the process for individuals seeking to join municipal and provincial popular councils. Several parties are urging their members and potential candidates to submit applications, stressing the importance of competence, experience, integrity, and popularity. This focus aims to prevent a repeat of disqualifications that affected candidates in recent legislative elections.
The National Liberation Front (FLN) has set a deadline of September 10 for submitting applications, with internal committee deliberations scheduled for September 11 and 12. Other parties, including the Movement of Society for Peace (MSP), the Future Front, and the National Democratic Rally (RND), are also reviewing candidates based on criteria beyond mere party affiliation. They are prioritizing skills, honesty, and the ability to lead, recognizing that local elections heavily rely on voter familiarity with candidates.
These party preparations are influenced by recent legislative election experiences, where numerous candidacies were rejected due to legal or electoral status issues. Parties are now more cautious in vetting candidates to avoid disruptions to their lists and to strengthen their competitive chances. Some potential candidates remain hesitant due to concerns about their applications being accepted or legal/party status complications, especially with new regulations limiting political movement between parties.
Why it mattersPolitical parties and potential candidates are affected by the nomination process and eligibility criteria for local elections.
Read in ASJ →The Algerian Football Federation has appointed a new interim coaching staff, mirroring a similar situation from 1996.
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has appointed a new interim coaching staff, bringing in three retired international players: Ibrahim Hamdani as national coach, Antar Yahia as his assistant, and Moussa Saib as general manager for the national team.
This decision follows the dismissal of Swiss coach Vladimir Petkovic after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup and ahead of two upcoming matches against Zambia and Burundi on September 25 and 29, respectively, for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
This situation echoes events from September 1996 when, after the national team's elimination from the 1998 World Cup qualifiers, the FAF appointed a three-man interim coaching committee to prepare for a match against Ivory Coast.
Why it mattersThe appointment of a new coaching staff affects the national football team and its upcoming matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
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