Algeria's President Tebboune Sets Rules for Free Speech, Criticizes West

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has firmly delineated the boundaries of freedom of expression in Algeria, asserting that while it is a guaranteed right, it is not absolute. During his periodic press conference, the President emphasized that this freedom must operate within the framework of the law, respect for national identity, and adherence to societal traditions. This clarification serves as a crucial reminder that expression cannot be used as a tool to sow discord or undermine the nation's fabric.

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Freedom of expression exists in Algeria, but it is not without borders.

President Tebboune directly challenged the notion of Western superiority in democratic values, highlighting what he perceives as hypocrisy. He pointedly questioned how Western nations can present themselves as models of free speech while simultaneously prosecuting individuals for expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause on social media. This rhetorical maneuver underscores Algeria's stance that it will not accept external lectures on democracy or human rights, especially from countries that, in his view, do not consistently uphold these principles themselves.

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How can Western countries pose as models when they imprison people for expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause on social media?

The President also addressed internal threats, cautioning against what he termed the "fifth column" – elements he believes act as conduits for foreign agendas. He asserted that those who previously relied on external support to disrupt the country have realized their miscalculation and that the instability witnessed before 2019 will not be repeated. Furthermore, Tebboune reinforced that Algerian law prohibits the reopening of sensitive historical issues, setting another clear limit on public discourse and emphasizing the nation's focus on moving forward.

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The disorder from before 2019 will not happen again.