Algeria court releases opposition figure Fethi Ghares and his wife under judicial supervision

An Algerian court, on Thursday, released prominent opposition figure, Fethi Ghares, and his wife under judicial supervision as they await further investigation into charges that include allegedly insulting President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Ghares, a leading member of the Democratic and Social Movement (MDS), and his wife were detained earlier this month, sparking significant attention within Algeria’s political circles. The charges against Ghares include “insulting the President of the Republic”, “incitement to unarmed gathering” and “publication of information that could harm national unity”, according to sources close to the case.

Their release under judicial supervision means that, while they are free to return home, both Ghares and his wife must remain available to authorities as the investigation continues. They may also face restrictions on their movements and communication as part of the judicial oversight.

The case has drawn criticism from opposition groups and human rights activists, who view the charges as politically motivated and part of a broader crackdown on dissent in Algeria. The MDS and other opposition parties have called for the charges to be dropped and for the government to respect freedom of speech and political expression.

This development comes amid growing tensions in Algeria, where President Tebboune’s government has faced mounting criticism over its handling of political opposition, freedom of the press and civil liberties. The situation remains tense as the legal proceedings against Ghares and his wife continue.

As the investigation unfolds, observers both within Algeria and internationally are closely watching how the authorities will handle this case, which could have broader implications for the country’s political landscape.

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