National Minute of Silence Honors October 17, 1961 Victims
Algeria is set to observe a nationwide minute of silence on Saturday, October 17, at 11:00 AM, in commemoration of the massacres of October 17, 1961. This solemn act, decreed by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, will take place across all national territory and extend to all Algerian diplomatic and consular representations abroad. The initiative serves to honor the profound sacrifices made by the Algerian community in the diaspora and the victims of those tragic events, while also recognizing their enduring contributions to the nation's struggle for liberation.
The observance specifically recalls the mass demonstrations in Paris on October 17, 1961, when Algerians protested a racist curfew imposed by colonial authorities. Under the leadership of Maurice Papon, the French police responded with brutal repression, confronting peaceful demonstrators with live ammunition and leading to the drowning of dozens in the Seine River. These courageous actions by the Algerian community abroad underscored their unbreakable bond with the homeland and their unwavering support for the ongoing national liberation revolution, even amidst severe oppression.
President Tebboune's decree formalizes the annual commemoration through Presidential Decree No. 21-392, solidifying the state's commitment to perpetuating the memory of these significant historical events. In his message, the President reiterated the state's full dedication to safeguarding members of the Algerian diaspora and ensuring their interests are protected. He emphasized the importance of facilitating their travel and ensuring their continuous connection to their home country, acknowledging their spirit of loyalty and national commitment.
