An Algerian journalist named Farid Alilat was recently expelled from the country after flying in from France. He was detained at the airport for 11 hours before being put on a plane back to France. Alilat is a writer for the French-language magazine Jeune Afrique, with years of experience reporting on Algeria for various newspapers. He was not given any verbal or written explanation for his expulsion, although authorities allegedly claimed they were acting on orders from above. Reporters Without Borders condemned the expulsion as a violation of press freedom, while former Communications Minister Abdelaziz Rahabi criticized it as a measure from another era that does not benefit the people or the government.
Alilat spoke out about his deportation on Facebook, expressing his frustration at being targeted for his articles as a free and independent journalist. He stated that he had never faced any issues from law enforcement or the courts in Algeria regarding his reporting, which includes coverage of his country. Algerian authorities reportedly believe that Jeune Afrique favors Morocco, Algeria’s regional rival, leading to suspicions about Alilat’s work. Despite the lack of specific reasons given for his expulsion, the incident reflects ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Algeria.
The expulsion of Alilat is just one example of the Algerian government’s restrictions on journalists in the country. Prominent journalists such as Ihsane El Kadi and Mustapha Benjama are currently imprisoned on charges related to foreign funding for journalism and disrupting public order. However, the government has also taken steps to grant authorizations to journalists starting new media outlets and television shows, as well as passing a law to enhance protections for journalists. This contradictory approach to media freedom highlights the complex landscape for journalists in Algeria.
The lack of coverage of Alilat’s expulsion by Algerian media outlets and the limited response from politicians suggest a reluctance to challenge the government’s actions against journalists. Former Communications Minister Abdelaziz Rahabi spoke out against the expulsion, emphasizing the right of individuals to enter their own country without arbitrary restrictions. The episode underscores the importance of press freedom and the need for continued advocacy to protect journalists in Algeria, especially amidst ongoing challenges and threats to their work.
Algeria recently announced a presidential election set for September, with the current military-backed president expected to seek a second term. The political context in the country is complex, with journalists facing increasing pressure and restrictions as they seek to report on key issues. The expulsion of Alilat serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in Algeria, from intimidation and censorship to imprisonment. Despite government efforts to improve media freedoms, the reality on the ground indicates a continuing struggle for journalists to carry out their work without interference or reprisals.
