In a significant development, Boualem Sansal, the French-Algerian novelist, has been granted a pardon by the Algerian presidency almost a year after his arrest upon arrival at Algiers airport. This pivotal decision allows the 81-year-old writer to leave Algeria, marking a resolution amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria.
Intervention by Germany’s President
Sansal’s release is believed to be a direct result of an intervention from German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who has maintained a positive rapport with Algeria’s President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Reports indicate that Sansal was on a military flight to Germany on Wednesday evening, and his release was met with widespread relief among supporters and advocates for freedom of expression.
“I thank President Tebboune for this act of humanity,” said French President Emmanuel Macron in a phone call with Sansal.
Macron emphasized that France approached the issue with respect and calm, which contributed to the outcome. The French presidency acknowledged Steinmeier’s crucial role as a “trusted third party,” facilitating the discussions surrounding the pardon.
Health concerns and legal troubles
Steinmeier had advocated for Sansal’s release, citing the author’s advanced age and fragile health, particularly as he has been receiving treatment for prostate cancer. In July, Sansal was sentenced to five years in prison for allegedly undermining national unity with statements questioning Algeria’s borders. His critical stance against the Algerian government has long been a source of tension, especially in light of France’s diplomatic overtures toward Algeria.
The arrest and subsequent pardon come amid a backdrop of strained relations between the two countries, exacerbated by France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and support for a limited autonomy plan for the region. This has placed Algeria, a staunch supporter of the pro-independence Polisario Front, in a difficult position.
Further complicating matters, Algeria expressed outrage earlier this year following the arrest of one of its consular staff in France, linked to a kidnapping case involving a government critic. This incident marked a low point in Franco-Algerian relations, which have been problematic since Algeria gained independence from France in 1962.
The political landscape in France has also influenced the situation, with some commentators attributing the confrontational approach towards Algeria to the stance of right-wing politicians, including former Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau. However, a recent cabinet reshuffle and the appointment of Laurent Nuñez as the new interior minister seem to indicate a potential shift in policy towards a more constructive dialogue.
While the release of Sansal has brought immense relief, tensions persist, as highlighted by the recent imprisonment of French sportswriter Christophe Gleizes for allegedly attempting to interview members of a group that Algeria categorizes as terrorist. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot praised the diplomatic efforts that led to Sansal’s release and expressed hope for Gleizes’ imminent release as well.