Franco-Algerian Writer Boualem Sansal Remains Imprisoned in Algeria: Concerns Rise
Boualem Sansal, a renowned Franco-Algerian author, has been incarcerated in Algeria since mid-November. His continued detention has raised concerns about his well-being and the implications for freedom of expression in the country.
Publisher Expresses Concern
Antoine Gallimard, Sansal’s publisher, expressed apprehension at a recent support event hosted by the Arab World Institute and Éditions Gallimard. "The latest news has not been good," he said. "Three months is a long time for him, especially when we don’t know if it will turn into six months, a year…"
Health Concerns
Sansal’s French lawyer, François Zimeray, provided updates on his client’s health. "He is currently in the prison ward of Mustapha Hospital in Algiers, receiving treatment for a serious condition," Zimeray said. "I have no doubt that he is receiving good care, but he is an elderly and ill man who has been weakened by his detention."
Charges and Allegations
Sansal is being prosecuted under Article 87 bis of the Algerian Penal Code, which criminalizes "any act targeting the security of the state, the integrity of the territory, the stability and the normal functioning of institutions." The Algerian authorities have reportedly taken offense to his statements to the French media outlet Frontières, in which he echoed Morocco’s position that its territory was truncated during French colonization to the benefit of Algeria.
Calls for International Support
Le Figaro, a French newspaper, published a tribune on Tuesday signed by a support committee for Sansal. The committee urged President Emmanuel Macron to use his influence to secure Sansal’s release. "France has a duty to intervene to protect its citizens and to uphold the values of justice and freedom of expression," the tribune stated.
The committee also noted that Sansal is a recipient of the prestigious Albert Camus Prize, awarded for his contributions to French literature and his defense of human rights. They argued that his imprisonment tarnishes Algeria’s image and undermines its commitment to international agreements on human rights.
Implications for Freedom of Expression
Sansal’s case has sparked concerns about the state of freedom of expression in Algeria. Human rights organizations have condemned his detention, arguing that it represents a crackdown on dissent and critical voices.
The Algerian authorities have justified Sansal’s arrest by claiming that his statements constitute a threat to national security. However, critics argue that his prosecution is politically motivated and intended to silence critical voices and restrict the space for public debate.
Ongoing Situation
As of now, Sansal remains in prison, and his future is uncertain. His supporters continue to call for his immediate release and for the Algerian authorities to respect his rights to due process and freedom of expression. The outcome of his case will have implications for both Sansal’s personal freedom and the broader climate of freedom of expression in Algeria.
