Algerian editor Hicham Aboud has accused the country's government of censorship after it blocked the publication of his two newspapers - My Journal and Djaridati.

He said the ban was imposed after he rejected an order from the communication ministry on Saturday night to remove an article that claimed the president, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, had slipped into a coma.

The 76-year-old leader, who suffered a stroke last month, is being treated in a hospital in France. Aboud said the articles quoted credible medical sources.

The ministry said its action prevented a breach of national security. The government has repeatedly said the president is recovering well.

Source: Associated Press via Washington Post