Algerian MPs limited to two questions monthly

The National People's Assembly in Algeria has established a new rule limiting deputies to two oral questions per month directed at government ministers. This measure aims to regulate parliamentary oversight and manage the scheduling of ministerial responses, preventing the backlog of questions seen in previous legislative terms. Written questions, however, remain unlimited. The assembly's office is set to meet to review and schedule these oral questions for upcoming sessions.

This initiative is intended to organize the sessions dedicated to ministerial responses and ensure their timely programming, avoiding the accumulation of thousands of questions that occurred in past legislative periods. The new internal regulations also stipulate that the government must respond to both oral and written questions within a maximum of 30 days from the date of notification. If a minister claims lack of jurisdiction, the question will be redirected to the appropriate official.

Deputies are being advised to focus on the quality and relevance of their questions, ensuring they address citizens' concerns and national issues. The aim is to broaden parliamentary oversight to encompass various government sectors and policies, not solely local matters. Oral question sessions are typically held every two weeks, alternating between the National People's Assembly and the Council of the Nation, making the management of question numbers and scheduling crucial for effective oversight.

Why it mattersAlgerian citizens are affected by this as it may streamline government accountability on issues relevant to their daily lives.

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