The judge presiding in the case of Habiba Kouider, the Christian woman from Tiaret, western Algeria, has asked that the investigation be completed before ruling on the matter (see "Algeria Prosecutor Demands Three Years In Prison For Christian Convert").

Kwaieder was charged with unauthorized non-Muslim religious activity after copies of the New Testament were found in her possession. Her sentencing had been set for May 27.

During the same session, arguments were heard in the cases of six others similarly accused; several of them were also charged with conducting missionary activity.

The prosecutor said that they had broken the 2006 law regulating non-Muslim religious activity.

A ruling in the case is expected June 3.

Source: Al-Watan, Algeria, May 28, 2008