“Immediate and Unconditional Release”: Boualem Sansal Support Committee Calls on Emmanuel Macron and EU Leaders to Intervene with Algeria
In a strong statement issued today, the International Support Committee for Boualem Sansal has called for the immediate and unconditional release of the renowned Algerian writer and intellectual.
The Press Release of the Boualem Sansal Support Committee
This call comes in the wake of comments made by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who described Sansal as an “a thief with no identity and no father.” in a speech delivered on Sunday, December 29, to members of Algeria’s bicameral parliament.
The committee, comprising leading figures from the worlds of literature, human rights, and international diplomacy, has urged French President Emmanuel Macron and senior European Union officials to take immediate action to secure the release of Boualem Sansal, who has been a vocal critic of the Algerian government and its policies.
Boualem Sansal, one of Algeria’s most prominent literary voices, has been under intense scrutiny and pressure from the Algerian authorities for his outspoken views, which have often criticized the government’s corruption, repression, and handling of the country’s historical legacy. His works, which explore themes of identity, freedom, and social justice, have earned him both international acclaim and government censure.
The committee’s statement emphasized the urgent need for diplomatic intervention by European leaders, particularly Macron and key EU representatives, to pressure the Algerian government to release Sansal. “This is not just about Boualem Sansal; it is about the freedom of expression, the rights of artists and intellectuals, and the importance of holding authoritarian regimes accountable for their actions,” said a spokesperson for the committee.
The Algerian president’s recent remarks, which have been widely condemned as a personal attack, have raised serious concerns about the ongoing harassment and persecution faced by critics of the regime. Supporters of Sansal fear for his safety, given the escalating climate of repression in the country.
“We stand in solidarity with Boualem Sansal and call for his immediate release,” the statement concluded. “We also call upon the international community, particularly the European Union and the French government, to take strong and swift action to ensure his freedom.”
The Comité de soutien is organizing a series of events to raise awareness of Sansal’s situation and to advocate for his release. Further actions, including petitions and public demonstrations, are expected in the coming days.
By: Abderrahmane Fares.
