CHAPTER THREE 3. DEMOCRACY AND POLITICAL GOVERNANCE 3.1 Introduction: challenges of political governance 103. Algeria in 2007 epitomises a country in the process of profound political, economic and social reconstruction and transformation. After 132 years of brutal colonialism, limitation of democracy due to the one-party state and a decade of indiscriminate terrorism, the country, although deeply traumatised, is on its way to restoring peace, stability and development. 104. After 1988, the consolidation of the state clearly emerged as an historical necessity. The establishment of a pluralist and democratic state, capable of managing public affairs in an effective and transparent manner, has been complicated by the internal difficulties associated with the culture of a singleparty state, as well as numerous socio-economic constraints. 105. The political reforms initiated by the authorities have led to the establishment of elected national assemblies. However, the development of a constitutional democracy was brutally interrupted during the 1992 legislative elections, when the country sank into violence and terrorism. 106. It was against the backdrop of this “national tragedy” that the first multi-party presidential elections took place on 16 November 1995. The advent of constitutional reform on 28 November 1996 made it possible for the Algerian people to reaffirm, seven years after 1989, their desire for a republican state. This state would be characterised, among other things, by strengthening of the rule of law, promotion of human rights, a clearer expression of fundamental freedoms and political pluralism, separation of powers, and the independence of the judiciary. 107. If an analysis of the current situation in Algeria highlights the very real prospect of national reconciliation and economic and social development, given the advances made and the importance of what has been achieved in establishing constitutional democracy and the rule of law, it is nonetheless true that important efforts still are needed to consolidate peace and stability, foster dialogue and participation by its citizens, as well as promote the effectiveness of the administration. 108. This current process of strengthening democratic institutions and practices follows on a decade of terror and negation of fundamental rights. This demonstrates the enormity and seriousness of the challenges that continue to face the country and require sustained attention. These challenges include: the challenge of national reconciliation and the consolidation of peace visà-vis efforts aimed at bringing a decisive end to the spectre of barbarism, 55