Algerian journalist criticizes country's 'media repression' relating to Morocco

Algerian media figure and opposition activist Walid Kabir said on Friday that the Algerian media cannot cover Moroccan news without approval from the intelligence agencies responsible for media affairs.

Speaking at the seminar organized by the Moroccan Forum for Young Journalists,titled “Challenges of Maghreb Media” held in Rabat, Kabir said that the Algerian media is currently under strict control by the ruling political authority, especially concerning relations with Morocco. 

Kabir noted a deliberate official policy in Algeria, endorsed by the ruling regime, that fosters a hostile approach towards Morocco. 

Kabir pointed out that official Algerian media outlets daily launch verbal attacks on Morocco, exacerbating tensions between the two countries.

The journalist further called on Algerian journalists enjoying some freedom, particularly those residing outside Algeria to engage with their Moroccan counterparts. in order to foster understanding and influence political decisions.

Kabir stressed the fact that it is the journalists’  responsibility to alleviate tensions, prevent the conflict from permeating the Moroccan and Algerian populations, and contribute to journalistic and media efforts on this issue. 

Kabir discussed the media landscape in Algeria following the approval of a new media law (Law 14-23) saying that this law solidifies the reality that the Algerian government lacks the intention to open up and liberalize the press and media.

During his presentation titled “Retreat and Contraction of Freedom Spaces in Algeria after the Protest and COVID-19 Crisis,” Kabir criticized the new media law for not bringing significant openness to various media outlets.

Kabir said that the new media law, despite its name, imposes fines and penalties to undermine journalists’ freedom of work. 

Kabir pointed out a crucial issue related to the prohibition of Algerians with dual nationality from establishing a media company, a provision that contradicts the explicit equality principle stated in Article 35 of the Algerian Constitution adopted on November 1, 2020.