SHOAA: The detention of journalist Abdelwakil Belam is a blatant violation of freedoms and a political exploitation of terrorism charges

SHOAA Organization expresses its deep concern regarding the recent developments in the arrest of journalist Abdelwakil Blamm, who was placed under provisional detention for investigation by the investigating judge at the Chéraga Court on Sunday, January 5, 2025. He is facing serious charges, including participation in a terrorist organization with knowledge of its purpose and activities (Article 87 bis of the Penal Code), publishing false news likely to harm public security and order (Article 196 bis), and harming national unity (Article 79). These charges are based on his posts on Facebook and alleged communications with opponents abroad.

These actions represent a dangerous escalation against freedom of expression and reflect a clear trend towards targeting journalists and activists, using the law to narrow the space for freedoms. The process surrounding Abdelwakil Blamm’s arrest has been marred by several alarming violations. He was first detained on December 23, 2024, by the internal security of the intelligence services, and was released on the same day with his phone confiscated. He was re-arrested on December 29, 2024, and remained in custody until he appeared before the public prosecutor on January 5, 2025. This sequence reveals a systematic pattern of suppression and intimidation aimed at silencing free voices and stifling dissent.

The organization highlights that the charges related to communications with opponents abroad, which were allegedly uncovered after the journalist’s phone was seized and exploited by security forces, represent a serious breach of the law and a blatant violation of the journalist’s right to privacy and protection from abuse. The exploitation of personal belongings to fabricate such serious accusations is a clear attack on fundamental freedoms and underscores the arbitrary application of the law.

The use of Article 87 bis, related to terrorism charges, to justify the prosecution of a journalist who merely exercised his right to free speech is a wrongful exploitation of this provision. This approach undermines the true purpose of anti-terrorism laws, turning them into a tool for repressing basic freedoms, in flagrant violation of the Algerian constitution and international conventions that require Algeria to respect freedom of expression and the press.

SHOAA Organization strongly condemns these violations and demands the immediate and unconditional release of journalist Abdelwakil Blamm and all prisoners of conscience. The organization also calls for an end to the use of the law to target journalists and activists, and for a comprehensive review of national legislation to ensure its compliance with international human rights standards.
The organization urges the international community and human rights organizations to take immediate action to support press freedom and activists in Algeria, and to work towards ensuring that the authorities respect human rights and fundamental freedoms. SHOAA Organization reaffirms its firm commitment to defending freedom of expression and independent journalism, emphasizing that these values are the cornerstone of any democratic and just society.