Algiers – The National Liberation Front (FLN) has strongly criticized France for providing safe harbor to Ferhat Mehenni, leader of the separatist group MAK, labeling it a direct assault on Algeria’s national unity. FLN Secretary-General Abdelkrim Benmbarek made the remarks during a public gathering in Tipaza province.
Benmbarek accused France of a “flagrant double standard,” stating that by allowing Mehenni, whom Algeria considers a terrorist, to operate freely and incite division from French soil, Paris is complicit in undermining Algeria’s stability and sovereignty. He emphasized that enabling a designated terrorist to openly advocate for secession constitutes unacceptable collusion.
“France’s sheltering of elements belonging to terrorist entities, primarily the MAK movement, reflects irresponsible behavior,” Benmbarek stated. He further criticized France for refusing to cooperate on cases involving individuals who have allegedly embezzled Algerian public funds, while simultaneously turning a blind eye to support for elements seeking to sow discord within Algeria.
The FLN Secretary-General asserted that Mehenni and his supporters have no legitimacy or standing within Algeria. He argued that aligning oneself with foreign powers automatically disqualifies any claim to national belonging. “Those who choose to serve colonial and Zionist agendas have no right to speak on behalf of any Algerian region, nor can they trade on the identity of a nation whose unity was forged by the blood of martyrs,” Benmbarek declared.
Benmbarek emphasized that Algeria, having overcome colonialism, is capable of thwarting any attempts at destabilization, thanks to the awareness of its people and the cohesion of its institutions. He affirmed that any attempts to undermine Algeria’s internal front are doomed to fail. He also paid tribute to the region of Kabylie.
DZWatch will continue to follow this developing story.
