Skikda commémore le 63ème anniversaire de la mort du Chahid Gouissem Abdelhak
Commemoration of Gouissem Abdelhak: A Tribute to a Martyr
On Sunday, the Skikda region in Algeria commemorated the 63rd anniversary of the death of Gouissem Abdelhak (1931-1962), a martyr who lost his life on March 16, 1962, during a French air raid in El Aifat. The event took place in the municipality of Ain Zouit, where members of the revolutionary family, local youth from the Algerian Muslim Scouts (SMA), and numerous citizens gathered to pay their respects.
The ceremony began with the laying of a floral wreath at a memorial dedicated to the fallen martyrs, followed by a raising of the national colors and the playing of the national anthem, evoking a deep sense of patriotism and remembrance.
Gouissem Abdelhak was born on May 24, 1931, in Collo to a modest family. He excelled academically from a young age, which led him to continue his secondary education in Skikda. During this time, he became a notable member of the SMA, an organization dedicated to instilling the values of patriotism, unity, and sacrifice among young Algerians.
When the Algerian War of Independence erupted in 1954, Gouissem took on a critical role, organizing Algerian students at the technical high school in Constantine. His leadership skills soon saw him rise through the ranks, eventually holding significant military positions, including zone commander with the rank of captain. His involvement in various important battles underscored his commitment to the fight for independence.
Eighty-nine-year-old Amar Yahia offered an eyewitness account of Gouissem’s final day. He recounted how he encountered the martyr as he was heading with fellow resistance fighters towards Collo to attend a meeting at El Aifat. Tragically, they fell victim to a bombardment carried out by the colonial army, marking Gouissem as the first to fall that day.
As local leaders and community members gathered, the event not only honored Gouissem Abdelhak’s legacy but also served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during Algeria’s struggle for independence. The communal reflection brought the citizens of Skikda together in solidarity, fostering a collective spirit of remembrance and determination.
Through this commemoration, the individuals present reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the memory of the nation’s martyrs and the values they fought for. Gouissem Abdelhak’s story stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of freedom, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations to uphold the ideals of courage, unity, and resistance against oppression.
The ceremony underscored the importance of historical remembrance in contemporary society and sought to instill a sense of national pride among the younger generation. The continued recognition of martyrs like Gouissem Abdelhak exemplifies Algeria’s commitment to memorializing its past while encouraging ongoing reflection on the values that underpin its national identity.
In conclusion, the 63rd anniversary of Gouissem Abdelhak’s death not only honored his sacrifice but also reminded attendees of the broader narrative of Algeria’s independence struggle. The gathering in Ain Zouit served as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom and the need to keep their memories alive in the hearts of the Algerian people.
