An Algerian court has sentenced 80-year-old writer Boualem Sansal to five years in prison for allegedly undermining the country’s territorial integrity. His conviction follows remarks in a French far-right media interview, where he claimed France gave Algeria too much land during colonial rule and that Western Sahara historically belonged to Morocco.
Sansal’s detention has sparked international support, with figures like Nigerian Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka and French President Emmanuel Macron advocating for his release. His case has further strained Algeria-France relations, already tense due to France’s backing of Morocco’s claim to Western Sahara.
Sansal, known for his anti-Islamist views and criticism of the Algerian government, has been hospitalized due to health concerns. His lawyer has appealed to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune for clemency. Despite controversy surrounding his political stance, Sansal remains a significant literary figure, with his latest novel, Vivre, set for release in May.
