Algerian associations behind US reports, says head of human rights body

Chief of the Consultative Commission of Human Rights Promotion and Protection Farouk Ksentini said Saturday general amnesty is one of the republic president’s prerogatives, adding he would not say any further details as it is a sensitive issue.

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• “As an Algerian citizen, I hope that the government will issue general amnesty to restore peace in the country,” Ksentini in a TV talk show.
• He believes the human rights situation in Algeria has improved especially in justice sector as prison conditions have become better.
• “The issue of torture in prison is fabricated by some international associations of human rights which alleged torture cases without any evidence.”
• Speaking about the latest US human rights report, Ksentini said the US ambassador to Algeria visited him and could not give any proves.
• “The US relied on reports from Algerian associations of human rights.”
• The lawyer stressed the necessity of awareness-raising actions in the community among young people to deal with illegal immigration problem.
• “The government must offer new jobs along with this campaign,” he added.
• He said the government needs the expertise of Algerian executives living abroad, adding that convincing them to come back home can not be done with superficial temptations.
• “Foreign countries are taking advantage from their competences. The government must provide social and professional care for them.”