Algeria ex-minister gets five years for corruption

Algeria’s former industry minister, Ali Aoun, was sentenced Monday to five years in prison after being convicted of corruption, local media reported. Prosecutors had sought a 12-year sentence.

The case centred on the irregular sale of ferrous and non-ferrous metal waste in violation of public asset management rules, according to Algerian media.

Aoun was the industry minister between 2022 and 2024.

His son, Mehdi Aoun, was also convicted and received a six-year prison term. Businessman Abdelnour Abdelmoula, described by reports as the main defendant, received 10 years.

Several other officials were convicted, though some were acquitted due to lack of evidence, the reports said.

The convictions are part of an ongoing anti-corruption drive launched by Algeria since President Abdelmadjid Tebboune came to power in 2019. Tebboune’s campaign has targeted senior officials, including those from the era of former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.

SOURCE: AFP