une démarche reflétant une ferme volonté politique de défendre la mémoire nationale
Summary of the Creation of a Parliamentary Commission to Criminalize Colonialism in Algeria
On Monday, various political parties in Algeria welcomed the formation of a parliamentary commission tasked with drafting a law to criminalize colonialism, reflecting a sustained political commitment to uphold national memory. The initiative, established by the National People’s Assembly (APN), was praised by the National Democratic Rally (RND) as an essential step aligned with Algeria’s robust intent to reaffirm the non-prescription of genocidal acts committed by France during its colonial rule.
Belkacem Djir, a communication advisor within the RND, emphasized the necessity of this initiative, aligning it with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s ongoing efforts to acknowledge the injustices suffered during the colonial period. Djir’s statements underscored a consensus among political figures that the memory of Algeria’s struggle against colonialism must be honored and legally protected.
The National Liberation Front (FLN), Algeria’s historical party of liberation, expressed its "satisfaction" with the commission’s creation. It characterized the move as an unwavering commitment to the historical memory of Algeria’s martyrs, which it maintains is non-negotiable. The FLN expressed its active participation in the initiative, advocating for a stringent and effective law that reflects the sacrifices made by Algerians over 132 years of colonial rule. Moreover, it called for the cooperative efforts of various professionals, including jurists and historians, to contribute to the law’s creation, urging all national forces to actively support this sovereign initiative.
Similarly, Front El Moustakbal shared its approval, remarking that the establishment of the commission portrayed a resolute political intention to restore national historical memory and moral rights. The party highlighted that criminalizing colonialism transcends mere legislative action; it is a national and moral obligation that honors the sacrifices of Algerian fighters and reiterates the painful historical impact of colonialism.
The Movement of Society for Peace (MSP) also commended the official stance towards the criminalization of French colonialism, asserting it as a state matter intertwining practical sovereignty with public demand. The MSP stressed that the issue of criminalizing colonialism is a principled one, demanding recognition, apologies, and reparations for the enduring effects of colonial occupation.
El-Bina Movement echoed this sentiment by recognizing the significance of institutional efforts to defend national memory through the commission’s formation. The movement reiterated that such initiatives align with broader African trends against colonialism and called for acknowledgment of colonial crimes and restitution for historical injustices experienced by oppressed peoples across the continent.
Lastly, the Sawt Echaâb party, led by Lamine Osmani, considered this initiative vital for preserving national memory and honoring the message of fallen heroes. Osmani articulated the notion of "reciprocity," suggesting that this movement not only seeks to heal historical wounds but also establishes a clear precedent that actions during colonial times cannot be disregarded.
In summary, the establishment of a parliamentary commission to draft legislation criminalizing colonialism has garnered widespread support among Algeria’s political spectrum. Political leaders highlight the initiative as essential for recognizing and honoring the sacrifices made during colonial rule. Each party articulates its commitment to restoring historical memory while emphasizing the need for legal frameworks that underline Algeria’s sovereignty and moral rights. The united stance across various political entities underscores a collective acknowledgment of the nation’s painful past and a commitment to ensuring such injustices are formally recognized and condemned.
