Watan-On Thursday, the Court of Misdemeanors in Dar El Beïda, in the Algerian capital, sentenced French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal to five years in prison with immediate enforcement, and a fine of 500,000 Algerian dinars (about €3,500). He had been detained since November on several serious charges, including “undermining national unity.”
Sansal was unexpectedly referred to court last Thursday after nearly five months of pretrial detention, on charges relating to undermining Algeria’s territorial integrity and other offenses, following statements in which he allegedly attributed parts of Algerian territory to Morocco.
Macron Expresses Hope; Widespread Condemnation in France
French President Emmanuel Macron commented that he “hopes” Sansal will regain his freedom and receive medical treatment.
Speaking at the close of a summit on Ukraine, Macron said:“I know I can count on the wisdom and humanity of the Algerian authorities to make such a decision,” referring to the possibility of a presidential pardon for the writer.
He added:“I hope the highest Algerian authorities will take a humanitarian decision to restore Sansal’s freedom and allow him to be treated for his illness.”
A spokesperson for the French Foreign Ministry said Paris “regrets the sentence issued against Sansal” and called for a swift resolution that preserves human dignity.
French lawmakers across the political spectrum strongly condemned the ruling, according to AFP.
Far-right leader Marine Le Pen said the sentence was effectively a life sentence given Sansal’s age and health, calling the ruling a scandal and stating:
“This will remain an indelible stain on the Algerian regime. In reality, Boualem Sansal is a hostage used by Algeria to pressure France.”
Mathilde Panot, of the far-left party France Unbowed, wrote on X (formerly Twitter):“Opinion should never be criminalized. We again demand his immediate release.”
Laurent Wauquiez, head of the conservative Republicans, also posted:“The sentence against Sansal is unjust, from a regime that despises freedom. It’s time to stop submitting to Algeria.”
Former French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, head of the presidential party Renaissance, called the ruling a “judicial farce.”
Just two days before the verdict, French ministers and politicians held a rally in Paris calling for Sansal’s release. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, who led the rally, again threatened to impose sanctions on Algeria.
Prosecution Demanded 10-Year Sentence
During the trial, the public prosecutor had requested a 10-year prison sentence and a 1 million dinar fine, accusing Sansal of undermining national unity, insulting state institutions, actions harmful to the national economy, and possessing videos and publications that threaten national security and stability.
According to Algerian media, Sansal appeared in good health—contrary to claims by his French lawyer, who had repeatedly voiced fears for his life. Sansal defended himself alone in court, refusing to appoint a legal interpreter, and insisted that his statements were merely an expression of opinion, just as any Algerian citizen might express. He stated he was unaware that his words could be interpreted as an offense against national institutions.
Background and Political Fallout
Sansal’s conviction comes amid a deepening diplomatic crisis between Algeria and France, to which this case has contributed. The outcome is expected to have significant implications—especially if he remains in prison—though some speculate that a presidential pardon might still be issued.
Before the verdict, President Macron had expressed confidence in Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, stating:“I trust President Tebboune’s insight and wisdom to recognize this is not a serious matter. We are dealing with a great writer who is also unwell.”
“Boualem Sansal must regain his freedom and be allowed to receive treatment. This is what we are fighting for.”
Macron also revealed he had exchanged several messages with Tebboune about the case, clarifying that he would not mix Sansal’s fate with other bilateral issues, which would be addressed later. He emphasized the case as one of humanity and dignity.
Arrest and Charges
Sansal, who acquired French citizenship just months before his arrest, was detained on November 16 on charges of “undermining Algeria’s national security and territorial integrity”, after an interview on a far-right TV channel, in which he questioned Algeria’s claim to its current borders.
He was placed in pretrial detention under Article 87 bis of the Algerian Penal Code, which criminalizes acts that threaten state security and classifies them as “acts of terrorism.”
Controversial Legacy
Sansal previously served as a senior government official in Algeria in the early 2000s (as Director of Industry). He is known for his controversial views, including describing Algerian anti-colonial fighters as “terrorists” and espousing extreme positions against Islam under the guise of opposing Islamism.
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