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France Condemns Sentencing of Franco-Algerian Author Boualem Sansal
Paris has expressed strong condemnation following the Algerian court’s decision to sentence Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, 80, to five years in prison. The ruling has sparked outrage in France, with political figures denouncing the verdict and calling for his immediate release on humanitarian grounds.
Political Leaders Criticize Algerian Court Ruling
Numerous French politicians voiced their disapproval of the sentencing on Thursday. Gabriel Attal, the former Prime Minister, described the legal proceedings as arbitrary and a “travesty of justice,” reflecting widespread concern over the nature of the trial and its outcome.
President Macron Appeals for Humanitarian Gesture
French President Emmanuel Macron has called upon Algerian authorities to consider a humanitarian action that would facilitate Sansal’s release, allowing him to seek necessary medical attention. Macron stated his confidence in the “common sense and humanity of the Algerian officials” to grant this request.
French Foreign Ministry Urges Swift Resolution
The French Foreign Ministry has also intervened, advocating for a “rapid, humane, and dignified resolution” to the situation, emphasizing the need for Algerian authorities to address the concerns surrounding Sansal’s imprisonment.
Background to the Arrest and Conviction
Boualem Sansal, a distinguished author and recipient of the 2011 Peace Prize of the German Book Trade, was detained upon his arrival in Algiers in mid-November. Subsequently, he was convicted on charges of undermining national unity and state security, which have been disputed by international observers and human rights advocates.
Controversial Interview Triggered Charges
The charges against Sansal are reportedly linked to statements made in an interview concerning the alteration of Morocco’s borders in Algeria’s favor during the French colonial period. These remarks touched upon a historically sensitive matter, given the ongoing territorial dispute between Algeria and Morocco.
International Condemnation and Calls for Release
The German branch of PEN, the global writers’ association, has vehemently denounced the verdict and demanded Sansal’s liberation. PEN highlighted the long-standing harassment and threats faced by Sansal due to his open criticism of the Algerian government and political Islam. His legal representative has appealed to Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune for a presidential pardon in an effort to secure his release.
Escalating Diplomatic Tensions
This case further exacerbates the existing tensions in the relationship between Algeria and France, contributing to a growing list of points of contention between the two nations.
Western Sahara Dispute Adds Strain to Relations
Last year, French President Macron’s recognition of Morocco’s claim to Western Sahara, a decades-old territorial dispute, was perceived as a diplomatic slight by Algeria, further straining bilateral relations.
Understanding the Western Sahara Context
Western Sahara’s history as a Spanish colony until 1975, followed by Morocco’s control over significant portions after Spain’s withdrawal, forms the backdrop to this ongoing dispute. The Polisario Front, supported by Algeria, actively seeks an independent state in Western Sahara, contributing to regional complexities and international relations challenges.