Facing the strike observed by bus operators, goods transporters, and taxi drivers, the National Organization of Algerian Transporters called this Sunday for a return to work, while reaffirming its confidence in institutional dialogue and the public authorities’ ability to provide a fair and lasting solution. This is what the organization stated in a press release addressed to transporters.
The National Organization of Algerian Transporters urged bus operators, goods transporters, and taxi drivers to “resume work and grant the organization the necessary opportunity and trust to resolve the current situation through dialogue and responsibility.” The organization specified that “it has formulated demands that serve the interests of transporters and the transport sector as a whole,” emphasizing that it is actively working to “convey professionals’ concerns to the competent authorities within a clear and responsible institutional framework.”
The National Organization of Algerian Transporters also reaffirmed its confidence in state institutions. It stressed that it places “full trust in the public authorities, under the leadership of the President of the Republic, to find a just and definitive solution to this situation.”
Responding to concerns raised by the new road code draft, the National Organization of Algerian Transporters recalled that this text “is not immutable and can be revised or even repealed.” The organization indicated that “a new road traffic law project can be developed with the active participation of representatives from public and private sectors.”
According to the National Organization of Algerian Transporters, this inclusive approach will ensure “a balance between necessary deterrence against dangerous behaviors and protection of transport professionals’ rights,” in a spirit of consultation and shared responsibility.
While calling on transporters to “exercise wisdom and vigilance,” the organization warned against manipulation risks. It cautioned that some actors might seek to “exploit the current situation to serve narrow interests or those contrary to the national interest.”
The National Organization of Algerian Transporters, “a responsible union,” emphasizes that “it has never been in its nature to lie to its members or manipulate them.” It added that “the organization’s history bears witness to its consistent positions and sincere commitment to transporters.”
Interior Ministry Clarifications
The Director of Roads and Logistics at the Ministry of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transport, Abdelghani Hamani, confirmed that “the strengthening of penalties planned in the new road traffic law draft is limited to proven serious cases, established by an investigation” in a statement to national radio.
He specified that these cases particularly concern “driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics,” adding that “responsibility is engaged only after a thorough investigation into the real causes of the accident.”
Hamani explained that “the law draft was developed by a specialized committee of experts and specialists,” and that it “incorporates several proposals from various road safety stakeholders.” He stressed that “the new road code does not target drivers exclusively,” but aims mainly to “curb dangerous behaviors that endanger road safety and users’ lives.”
The same official indicated that, “for the first time, legal responsibility in serious accidents will extend to entities responsible for road construction and maintenance, as well as importers of counterfeit spare parts.” These elements, he specified, “are considered contributing factors to traffic accidents and must therefore be accounted for in the overall road safety approach.”