Boualem Sansal's Controversial Statements on Morocco-Algeria Borders
In an illuminating interview with the German broadcaster Deutsche Welle, the Franco-Algerian author Boualem Sansal has once again made headlines by reiterating his controversial statements regarding the historical borders between Morocco and Algeria. Specifically, he asserted that the regions of Tlemcen, Oran, and Mascara have historically belonged to the Kingdom of Morocco. This provocative claim has reignited discussions surrounding territorial integrity and national identity in North Africa.
Sansal stated, "This is a historical truth, whether people believe it or not," as reported by Hespress. He reflected on his childhood memories in western Algeria, where he observed that some families identified as Moroccan and mixed marriages were commonplace, indicating a shared cultural heritage that transcends modern political boundaries.
To further explain his perspective on regional history, Sansal drew a parallel between the evolving borders of Morocco and Algeria and the current situation between Ukraine and Russia. He argued that the delineation of borders has changed over time, attributing their modern configuration to the French colonial period, during which he believes France played a pivotal role in shaping the territorial lines between the two nations.
Legal Action Against Algerian President
During the interview, Sansal also addressed his contentious relationship with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. When asked about the possibility of a dialogue with the president, Sansal dismissed this notion and announced his intention to take legal action against him. He holds Tebboune personally accountable for his arrest and subsequent conviction, emphasizing that the president's public statements about him prior to his court appearance are central to his case.
Sansal revealed that his lawyer has gathered video recordings, press articles, and various documents related to his situation, and he is determined to pursue legal action against Tebboune personally, rather than against the Algerian state or its government. He expressed confidence in the possibility of achieving a judicial conviction, though he acknowledged that the likelihood of arresting the president seems improbable.
In recounting the circumstances of his arrest, it is noteworthy that Boualem Sansal was detained in November 2024 upon arriving at Houari Boumédiène Airport in Algiers from France. His arrest was primarily linked to his outspoken views on the historical borders between Morocco and Algeria, as well as his criticisms of France’s support for Morocco concerning the Kingdom’s territorial integrity.
After a diplomatic intervention by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Sansal was ultimately released. Reflecting on his time in prison, he described the psychological scars left by his incarceration, comparing it to trauma. He explained that the effects of imprisonment can linger long after freedom is regained, suggesting that the resumption of a seemingly normal life does not equate to the disappearance of internal wounds. Traumas, he articulated, can accumulate and continue to affect daily life well after one has left prison.
As reported by fr.hespress.com.
