Algiers – The Speaker of the People’s National Assembly (APN), Brahim Boughali, has affirmed that the proposed law criminalizing French colonialism in Algeria constitutes a complete act of sovereignty and establishes an international benchmark in this domain. He emphasized that national memory is intrinsically linked to national sovereignty, making them inseparable.
In an interview, Boughali stated that this legislative text is the culmination of unwavering commitment and a prolonged struggle led by parliamentarians. This, he argues, reflects the pivotal role of the APN in safeguarding national memory and protecting it from any attempts at obliteration or distortion.
Addressing Algerian-French relations, the Speaker acknowledged President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s diplomatic approach as wise and balanced. However, he pointed to ‘hidden forces’ within France that have hindered tangible progress in this direction.
Algeria’s Independence and Sovereignty
Boughali firmly asserted that Algeria is an independent and sovereign nation, and external pressures will not deter it from making its own decisions, especially when dealing with historical truth and justice. The objective of this law is to consolidate justice and reveal historical truth, thereby fostering sound and balanced relations between Algeria and France, based on mutual recognition and respect, for the sake of a shared future for generations to come.
He revealed that the drafting process involved the formation of a committee comprising various political currents to ensure that the bill reflected the will of the people and to prevent its exploitation for political gain. The process was conducted quietly and away from media attention until the final version was completed, which was then reviewed by legal experts before its approval. Boughali added that the law will be translated into English, German, and Spanish, to serve as a reference for other nations.
