ALGIERS – President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria announced on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the granting of presidential pardons to 2,471 prisoners as part of efforts to promote peace and reconciliation within the country. According to the Presidential Office, these measures of grace include total and partial sentence reductions applicable to different categories of prisoners.
The announcement outlines the specific groups benefiting from the pardons. For individuals not currently incarcerated who have been definitively sentenced to less than 24 months, their sentences will be completely waived. Similarly, those currently serving sentences of 18 months or less will also receive full pardons. For prisoners with sentences exceeding 18 months but not exceeding 30 years, there will be partial reductions of their sentences by up to 18 months.
Interestingly, the pardons come with specific provisions for vulnerable groups. For detainees aged 65 and older, as well as minors, pregnant women, and mothers with children under three years old, the total or partial sentence reductions can extend up to 24 months. These targeted measures showcase the government's commitment to humanitarian principles within the judicial framework.
"Le président de la République, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, a décidé, ce jour, des mesures de grâce présidentielle et des mesures d’apaisement au profit de 2 471 détenus..." signifies the formal nature of the announcement, marking it as part of Tebboune's broader strategy for societal healing.
While pardons are granted, the Presidential Office also noted exceptions for certain categories of prisoners—as relayed by Tebboune's communications. Particularly, individuals convicted of serious crimes disrupting public order will remain ungranted clemency, reflecting the state’s stance on maintaining public safety.
The decision aligns with international best practices of utilizing pardons as instruments for promoting social harmony, especially during times marked by national reflection, such as the new year. The measure is seen as both timely and necessary, ushering opportunities for reintegration for the pardoned individuals as they rejoin society.
"La durée de la réduction totale et partielle de la peine est portée à 24 mois pour les détenus condamnés définitivement âgés de 65 ans ou plus..." indicates the nuances interacted with the legal stipulations, ensuring justice remains balanced with empathy.
Overall, the granting of these presidential pardons can potentially reshape the lives of thousands and reflect the state's initiatives toward rehabilitation rather than retribution. The effects of such measures could pave the way for broader discussions on judicial reforms and the reinforcement of civil liberties within Algeria.
With this move, President Tebboune aims not only to lessen the burden on the prison system but also to promote greater national unity and trust, fostering environments where former prisoners can contribute positively to their communities.
