Algerian President Tebboune’s State of the Nation Address: A Positive Review, Honorable Positions, and Forward-Looking Messages

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

ALGIERS- The event is significant, with all eyes focused on the Palace of Nations, eagerly awaiting every word of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s speech before the deputies of both chambers. It’s a comprehensive review and a forward-looking address for the upcoming year, signaling the effective establishment of the New Algeria.

For the first time in the history of independent Algeria, a president, following in the footsteps of the late President Houari Boumediene in 1977, addresses the nation through Parliament to present a report on his administration’s achievements over the four years and outline the prospects for the coming year.

This practice, delivering a national address before the parliamentary deputies, is intended to become a regular occurrence, a tradition for future Algerian leaders. It demonstrates their commitment to the country’s constitution and the hierarchical respect for responsibilities.

Speaking before the two chambers of Parliament is a dynamic acknowledgment of the importance attached to the legislative institution by the head of state. He had pledged during his electoral campaign to restore the full credibility of the parliament in both of its chambers.

At the beginning of his speech, the president expressed his honor in addressing the parliamentary members, emphasizing that they are the cornerstone of building the New Algeria. He reassured them about the transparency of the elections through which the deputies were elected, emphasizing the absence of money’s influence, be it clean or tainted.

Cultivating Dialogue: A Cultural Approach to Public Administration

Reaffirming his commitment to the transparent governance of the country, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune states, “I employ constructive dialogue as a cultural cornerstone for public administration.” He reflects on Algeria’s precarious situation before 2019, a state of affairs that nearly eroded the very foundations of the nation. It was the sacred unity forged between the people and their army that thwarted all attempts to destabilize Algeria.

Within the framework of building the New Algeria, the president underscores his unique approach by being the first to formalize his commitments in writing. “Those who seek accountability from us are welcome to do so,” he emphatically declares.

Challenges and Triumphs

Following his election, the President faced formidable challenges. Besides the task of rebuilding the nation, he confronted the daunting challenge of managing a coronavirus pandemic that severely strained our healthcare system. However, through President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s wisdom and determination, coupled with the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals engaged in an unrelenting battle, the pandemic was ultimately overcome. The toll was heavy, but success emerged, rekindling hope for the entire Algerian people awakening from a prolonged economic, cultural, and existential hibernation imposed upon them.

Relentless Struggles

The President of the Republic also highlighted the often unequal struggles he had to endure against those who believed in him, countering the remnants of corruption that artificially created shortages of essential food products and liquidity in post offices. These tactics aimed to obstruct the path to the New Algeria. Every means was attempted, including sabotage across various public sectors, the dissemination of fake news, dilatory maneuvers, and collusion with foreign entities hostile to Algeria. However, due to the President’s nationalism, commitment, and courage, along with the collective efforts of his team and the growing awareness of the Algerian people, their attempts proved futile.

Establishing the Rule of Law

The establishment of the rule of law was deemed an urgent priority by the President of the Republic to restore the violated dignity of the Algerian people and set the country on the path to modernity. “We have promoted constitutional justice, initiated legislative reforms, and established a new generation of constitutional institutions,” remarked the President of the Republic.

Concrete Actions

Continuing his address, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune outlines the measures taken since his election in the recovery of pillaged state assets, amounting to nearly 30 billion dollars in properties and real estate. He states, “We are still in discussions with several countries to recover the people’s assets that have been looted and stolen.” Among the actions led by the President of the Republic is the elimination of over 26,000 fictitious companies that were siphoning funds from the Public Treasury, particularly through inflated invoices and deceptive imports. “While we were at the bottom of the ranking of countries known for their enterprises, we currently stand in the middle of the pack, after only two years and many challenges. We hope to export at least 5 million tons of iron ore in the shortest term,” announces the President of the Republic.

A Foreign Exchange Reserve of Over 70 Billion Dollars

“The country has come a long way and is now in good economic health; our foreign exchange reserve currently exceeds 70 billion dollars, double what we found at the end of 2019. Of course, much remains to be done, but the initial steps have yielded encouraging results, and we will continue our journey without interruption,” stated President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Continuing the enumeration of achievements, the President recalls the establishment of permanent presentation zones in friendly countries to showcase Algerian production. Economic growth has reached 4.2%, according to global financial institutions, and both the UN and other global financial institutions classify Algeria among countries that have gained immunity against malnutrition and external debt.

Furthermore, “Algeria produces 70% of its pharmaceutical needs, and the inflation rate is steadily decreasing,” he notes.

Preserving the Purchasing Power of Algerians

Among the social measures initiated by the President of the Republic, preserving the purchasing power of Algerians has been one of the challenges addressed by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, resulting in a significant improvement in the situation of all Algerian households, without exception. The year 2024 will begin with another salary increase, reaching a total of 47% in two years.

There has also been the introduction of unemployment allowances for young people seeking employment, which has benefited nearly 2 million individuals to date.

Exemption from income tax for those earning less than 30,000 DA per month and an increase in pensions are other significant actions in preserving the purchasing power of Algerian citizens.

“I trust in our youth and their potential.”

At the end of his speech, the President expressed gratitude to the young Algerians who did not exaggerate in requesting unemployment allowances, stating, “I have great confidence in our youth and in the Youth Supreme Council that represents them.”

He recalled having to terminate the functions of certain officials who failed in their duties, “but being obliged to do so,” he later declared. “Since I was a simple local official, I have never ignored the areas of darkness, and I will continue to support them because I stand for an Algerian from Timiaouine to Hydra,” he also affirmed.

Palestine and Western Sahara

Regarding Palestine and Western Sahara, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune reiterates Algeria’s unwavering stance and reaffirms that “Algeria will always stand by Palestine in all circumstances; our position is unchangeable, and we will do everything possible to restore the rights of our Palestinian brothers.” The same position holds for the right of the people of Western Sahara to independence, and he assures that Algeria will continue to defend the African continent and all just causes within the Security Council, where it holds a position as a non-permanent member.

Algeria, with its newly acquired position, has prepared important agendas to present to the Security Council for approval. One key focus is addressing the underrepresentation of African nations within the council. President Tebboune expressed confidence in Algeria’s ability to navigate and successfully advocate for important issues, emphasizing that the country’s voice is now heard and respected.

Acknowledging the significant support from the 184 members of the Security Council who voted in favor of Algeria’s membership, President Tebboune expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the country. This support has paved the way for Algeria to contribute actively to global discussions and decisions over the next two years.

President Tebboune’s commitment reflects Algeria’s dedication to promoting fairness, justice, and representation on the international stage. As the country takes on this crucial role, it is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping policies that not only address the concerns of Africa but also contribute to the global pursuit of peace, stability, and equality.

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