Tipaza, Algeria – A minor disruption occurred during the official inauguration ceremony of the new Governor of Tipaza, Mohamed Amine Benchaoualia, on Sunday, November 9, 2025. The incident involved the ringing of a mobile phone during a speech by the Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transportation, Said Saayoud.
According to reports from the event, the phone belonged to the president of one of Tipaza’s municipalities. The ringing interrupted Minister Saayoud’s address, prompting him to pause and express his displeasure.
Sources present at the ceremony quoted the Minister as saying, with a clear tone of disapproval: “If my speech is of no interest to you, you are welcome to leave the room and take your call outside.” He then resumed his address to the assembled officials and elected representatives.
Minister Saayoud also alluded to the demanding schedule he has been maintaining, traveling across several wilayas in recent days. This extensive travel is part of his duties overseeing the installation of newly appointed governors, a series of appointments recently approved by the President of the Republic.
The inauguration ceremony marked the official commencement of Mohamed Amine Benchaoualia’s tenure as Governor of Tipaza, succeeding Ali Moulay following the recent reshuffle within the ranks of governors and delegate governors. This event highlights the ongoing administrative changes within the Algerian government.
The incident, while brief, served as a notable moment during an otherwise formal and significant occasion.
