Algiers, November 10, 2025 – President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has received a formal request from German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier appealing for clemency for the imprisoned Algerian writer, Boualem Sansal.
According to reports, President Steinmeier’s appeal is based on humanitarian grounds, citing Sansal’s advanced age and reported deteriorating health. The German President has suggested that, as a gesture of goodwill, Sansal be permitted to travel to Germany to receive necessary medical treatment.
“I have requested my Algerian counterpart to consider a pardon for Boualem Sansal,” President Steinmeier reportedly stated. “Such an act would be a testament to a humane spirit and a display of insightful political vision. Furthermore, it would reflect my strong personal relationship with President Tebboune, as well as the excellent relations between our two nations.”
Boualem Sansal, a dual citizen of Algeria and France, was sentenced to imprisonment and fined in Algeria earlier this year. He is a recipient of the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade, awarded on July 1, 2025.
The Algerian government has yet to officially respond to the German President’s request. The case of Boualem Sansal has drawn international attention, raising questions about freedom of expression and the treatment of intellectuals within Algeria.
DZWatch will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available.
