Algeria’s Parliament Speaker, Ibrahim Boughali, has reignited calls for a long-delayed law criminalizing French colonialism, citing repeated political attacks from Paris. In a televised interview on Thursday, Boughali urged lawmakers to revive the draft legislation, first introduced in 2006, arguing that the current diplomatic tensions make it imperative to formally address France’s 132-year rule over Algeria.
His remarks mark the first time a high-ranking Algerian official has publicly pushed for legal action against the country’s colonial past.
Algerian Parliament Speaker Ibrahim Boughali has called for the passage of a law that would criminalize French colonialism, signaling a potential escalation in already strained ties between Algiers and Paris.
Speaking in an interview with Echorouk TV on Thursday, Boughali denounced “repeated French attacks” aimed at tarnishing Algeria’s image. He urged lawmakers to bring the long-dormant draft law back to the table, arguing that the current political climate necessitates decisive action.
“The time has come to put the draft law criminalizing colonialism on the table so that it takes its natural course,” he stated.
This marks the first time a senior Algerian official has openly pushed for legal measures targeting France’s 132-year rule over Algeria (1830–1962). Boughali emphasized that the proposal, originally introduced in 2006 in response to France’s controversial 2005 law recognizing the so-called “positive aspects of colonialism,” must now be revived.
He confirmed that the draft law is currently under review and will undergo amendments before being formally presented for parliamentary debate and approval.
The renewed push comes amid increasing diplomatic friction between Algeria and France, with Boughali accusing Paris of failing to engage in genuine reconciliation efforts.
Since taking office in 2019, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has sought a balanced approach to France, emphasizing mutual respect. However, Boughali suggested that France’s historical reluctance to acknowledge its colonial crimes justifies Algeria’s move to hold it accountable.
“Historical events have proven that France is not cooperative,” Boughali asserted, reinforcing calls for Algeria to take legislative action on behalf of its people.
If passed, the law could redefine Algeria’s stance on colonial reparations and further strain relations between the two nations.
