Algiers, Algeria — July 4, 2025
An Algerian court has sentenced prominent historian Mohamed Amine Belghit to five years in prison for making controversial remarks deemed offensive to national symbols and inciting hatred, his lawyer confirmed on Thursday.

Controversial Comments Spark National Outrage

Belghit came under fire following a recent televised interview in which he questioned the legitimacy of Algeria’s indigenous Amazigh culture, stating that the “Amazigh language is an ideological project of Franco-Zionist origin” and that “there’s no such thing as Amazigh culture.” His statements provoked widespread backlash from activists, scholars, and members of the Amazigh community, who saw the remarks as inflammatory and historically inaccurate.

Charges: Undermining National Unity and Hate Speech

Following the backlash, Belghit was arrested on May 3 on charges related to “undermining national unity”, “disseminating hate speech”, and “targeting symbols of the nation and the republic”, according to a statement from the prosecution. The case quickly became a flashpoint in national debates around free speech, historical narratives, and ethnic identity.

Court Delivers Harsh Sentence

On Thursday, the court — located outside the capital Algiers — delivered its verdict, sentencing Belghit to five years in prison, as confirmed by his lawyer Toufik Hichour in a Facebook post. The prosecution had initially requested a harsher sentence of seven years in prison along with a 700,000 dinar fine (approximately $5,400).

Public Reaction and Broader Implications

Belghit’s sentencing has drawn mixed reactions across Algeria. While some have praised the verdict as a necessary defense of national unity and respect for cultural diversity, others, particularly advocates of academic freedom and freedom of expression, view it as a dangerous precedent.

The Amazigh people, indigenous to North Africa and officially recognized in Algeria’s constitution, have long struggled for cultural and linguistic recognition. This case underscores ongoing tensions in the country over identity, free speech, and historical discourse.

International and Human Rights Concerns

Several human rights organizations have called for a review of the sentence, arguing that while Belghit’s comments were deeply offensive, criminalizing speech about historical and cultural issues may infringe upon freedom of expression protected under international law.

The Algerian government has yet to issue an official response to the sentencing or the growing international concern.

Reporting by The Enthusiastic
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