Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune delivered a forceful critique of France on Sunday, renewing calls for the former colonial power to acknowledge its historic crimes during Algeria’s 132 years of colonization. Speaking before both chambers of parliament, Tebboune reviewed the key achievements of his first presidential term (2019-2024) and laid out his agenda for his second term, which began in September 2024. His remarks, however, focused largely on addressing the lingering impact of colonialism on Algeria’s national consciousness.
Tebboune reiterated that while Algeria does not seek financial compensation, it demands that France confront the painful legacy of its colonial past, which continues to shape relations between the two countries. “We are striving for the dignity of our ancestors,” Tebboune stated, underscoring the deep scars left by the colonization period. He highlighted the loss of 5.6 million Algerians who died during the resistance against French rule, emphasizing that no amount of money could ever make up for the lives lost in the struggle for independence. “No amount of money can compensate for the loss of even one martyr,” he asserted.
The president’s remarks were delivered amid a period of heightened political tensions between Algeria and France, triggered by a series of diplomatic spats. Algeria recently withdrew its ambassador and summoned the French ambassador, citing what it described as “hostile acts” carried out by French intelligence agencies operating within Algeria. These tensions reflect the broader, unresolved grievances between the two nations stemming from the colonial period.
Tebboune also took the opportunity to criticize the French colonial military’s actions, particularly under General Thomas Robert Bugeaud, who served as the governor-general of Algeria from 1841 to 1847. The president called Bugeaud “genocidal” for his brutal tactics in suppressing Algerian resistance, further emphasizing the atrocities that occurred under French rule. He reaffirmed Algeria’s commitment to addressing historical injustices, including the issue of Algerian skulls that remain in French custody. Tebboune revealed that France still holds the remains of 500 Algerians, decapitated during the colonial period, with only 24 of the skulls having been returned to Algeria so far.
On the domestic front, Tebboune outlined plans to launch an inclusive dialogue with political parties early next year, aiming to strengthen Algeria’s national unity and reinforce the country’s independence. This dialogue, he said, would be a crucial step in shaping the future of Algeria’s political landscape, culminating in new laws to govern political parties and associations. Tebboune stressed that the dialogue would be deep and comprehensive, with the ultimate goal of fostering greater cohesion and national solidarity.
As Algeria continues to seek justice for the atrocities of its colonial past, Tebboune’s speech underscores the ongoing strain in diplomatic relations with France. Despite calls for reconciliation, the unresolved issues of the colonial era remain a contentious and deeply emotional subject for the Algerian people, one that continues to shape the future of both nations’ interactions.