Algeria: President Tebboune’s Unwavering Commitment to Accountability and Governance Excellence
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- Since assuming the presidency four years ago, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has consistently emphasized a policy of zero tolerance for errors and lapses from senior officials, challenging the prior culture of overlooking certain missteps. This commitment to accountability is underscored by recent dismissals and public clarifications on the reasons behind them, signaling a personal stance from President Tebboune that there will be no leniency for transgressions affecting citizens’ interests or violating the law.
Presidential communications have provided insights into the termination of duties for various officials, shedding light on shortcomings and breaches of duty. President Tebboune’s decisive actions are interpreted as a personal message to officials, signaling an intolerance for malpractices, manipulation of citizens’ interests, and any disregard for the law, especially among top executives.
Addressing incidents such as those within Air Algérie, President Tebboune has called out officials for failing to exercise due diligence and exceeding the bounds of their duties. These statements aim to ensure transparency and accountability, indicating that there will be no room for ambiguity or interpretative leeway when it comes to adhering to ethical standards.
The removal of officials has not been confined to the central government but has extended to executive bodies in the provinces. President Tebboune has signed several decrees over the years terminating the duties of governors and heads of departments, accompanied by official statements explaining the reasons and announcing investigations into any misconduct.
November alone witnessed the dismissal of three district chiefs, with detailed official announcements highlighting their failures and departures from the expected standards of conduct. These actions underscore President Tebboune’s commitment to meticulous oversight, with a chief magistrate closely monitoring day-to-day management details and making timely decisions.
The government’s approach, exemplified by President Tebboune’s directives, involves instituting changes in public institutions, reflecting his keen interest in addressing citizens’ daily concerns. The president places citizens’ interests at the forefront of evaluations for all officials, both at the local and central levels.
President Tebboune consistently offers guidance to the government, stressing the need for prompt implementation of cabinet decisions. During a recent cabinet meeting on November 14, he urged maximum speed in executing decisions that had been delayed or not yet implemented. He also cautioned ministers against making exaggerated promises, emphasizing a commitment to truthfulness and avoiding commitments that cannot be honored.
The dismissal of Agriculture Minister Abdelhafid Henni and his replacement with Youcef Cherfa late in the night on the same day he made an irresponsible statement is the latest example of President Tebboune’s dedication to upholding accountability. This event exemplifies his commitment to a culture of accountability and decisiveness in crucial moments, prioritizing the interests of the state and citizens above all.
President Tebboune’s legacy is one of governance excellence and unwavering accountability, positioning him as a leader who places the people’s well-being and the nation’s interests at the core of his leadership.
