Algerian opposition criticises debate on deployment to Niger
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Leprovincial
The RCD, FFS and Jil Jadid do not oppose in principle sending Algerian soldiers to Niger, but denounce the lack of consultation and parliamentary debate. The FFS says the defence doctrine needs to be adapted to instability in the Sahel, according to positions communicated by the three parties.
The Rally for Culture and Democracy (RCD), the Socialist Forces Front (FFS) and Jil Jadid criticised the conditions of the parliamentary debate on sending Algerian soldiers to Niger, while acknowledging the need to protect the country’s strategic interests, Leprovincial reports. The parties denounced the lack of consultation and the failure to communicate the agenda in advance.
The FFS, which considers it necessary to adapt the defence doctrine to instability in the Sahel, abstained during the session. It called on parliamentarians to provide the information needed to assess the objectives and risks of the deployment. The RCD also said that a deployment abroad should be based on clear objectives and an assessment of its consequences for Algeria and regional stability.
The Algerian Parliament authorised the deployment of military units to Niger on 25 October, according to the authorisation decision. The debate comes after Algeria presented the deployment as a means of protecting its economic interests, particularly energy facilities, according to the stated objectives.
