According to local media sources, a former prime minister of Algeria under the late president Abdelaziz Bouteflika has been arrested, making him the third former premier who may go to prison on corruption-related accusations.
After his incarceration on Sunday, an Algiers judge gave Noureddine Bedoui court supervision and took away his passport; however, on Tuesday, a different court chose to keep him in custody.
The 62-year-old replaced unpopular premier Ahmed Ouyahia in early 2019 as Algeria was rocked by unheard-of protests against Bouteflika’s attempt for a fifth term in office. He served as prime minister for a limited period of time.
However, Bouteflika’s actions did nothing to quell resentment; three weeks later, under pressure from the people and the army, he announced his resignation, ending his 20 years in power.
Both Ouyahia and fellow former premier Abdelmalek Sellal received lengthy prison terms for corruption-related offenses committed under Bouteflika.
Following Bouteflika’s downfall, prosecutors opened a number of bribery investigations against members of his inner circle. As a result, many other prominent individuals—including his influential brother Said—were given lengthy prison terms.
