Algerian-French Writer Sentenced Amidst Controversy
An Algerian-French author, Boualem Sansal, has been sentenced to five years in prison after his arrest in Algeria, a move that has escalated tensions between Algeria and France. The writer, who was born in Algeria and recently acquired French citizenship last year, was detained in November due to remarks he made to French media that appeared to support Morocco in its territorial dispute with Algeria.
The circumstances surrounding Mr. Sansal’s arrest provoked significant backlash from the international literary community, with many authors and activists rallying for his release. His sentencing, which took place on Thursday, came after months of advocacy for his freedom, including appeals from French President Emmanuel Macron. This situation is particularly sensitive given Algeria’s historical context as a former French colony.
According to his attorney in France, Francois Zimeray, Mr. Sansal’s trial was marred by serious legal issues, as he was not permitted to have legal representation during the proceedings. Zimeray described the situation as follows:
- “Cruel detention, 20 minutes of hearing, a forbidden defense and ultimately five years in prison for an innocent writer,” he stated in a public release.
- The sentence, he added, “betrays the very meaning of the word justice.”
Boualem Sansal, who is approximately 80 years old and has been diagnosed with cancer, is currently incarcerated at Kolea prison, located just outside the capital city of Algiers. His health condition has raised further concerns about his well-being during this turbulent time.
