Algiers – Algeria today commemorates the 65th anniversary of the December 11, 1960, demonstrations, a watershed moment in the nation’s struggle for independence. These demonstrations were instrumental in internationalizing the Algerian cause, demonstrating to the world the unwavering unity, commitment to sovereignty, and right to self-determination of the Algerian people, alongside their rejection of colonial bargaining.
The Algerian people remain deeply proud of their heritage of unity and the defense of national sovereignty and territorial integrity, a sentiment echoed by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on previous occasions. He emphasized that Algerians, generation after generation, are imbued with a profound sense of national spirit and are resolutely committed to honoring the sacrifices of the martyrs and their enduring message.
President Tebboune has highlighted the profound significance of these demonstrations, emphasizing their embodiment of loyalty and dedication to the homeland. He described them as a powerful expression of freedom and dignity, a defiant cry against tyranny and colonial domination. The demonstrations served as a resounding affirmation of the Algerian people’s solidarity and their unwavering commitment to the liberation revolution and the objectives outlined in the historic November 1st Declaration.
On December 11, 1960, Algerians took to the streets in peaceful demonstrations across the country, responding to the call of the National Liberation Front (FLN). These demonstrations affirmed the principle of self-determination and rejected the colonial authorities’ attempts to maintain control through the ‘Third Way’ proposal, an initiative by General Charles de Gaulle following his visit to Algeria. This proposal aimed to keep Algeria within France under the guise of ‘Algerian Algeria’.
While supporters of De Gaulle’s plan welcomed it, colonial settlers opposed to his policies staged counter-demonstrations on December 9, 1960, in Ain Temouchent, carrying banners proclaiming ‘French Algeria’. In response, the Algerian masses rose up in peaceful demonstrations that began in Ain Temouchent and spread throughout the country. They expressed national unity, support for the liberation revolution, and the demand for complete independence, carrying national flags and banners with slogans such as ‘Long Live Muslim Algeria’ and ‘No to Partition’. These demonstrations marked a decisive turning point, solidifying Algeria’s path towards liberation.
