Algeria’s Fight on Multiple Fronts: Speaker Salah Goudjil’s Insight on National Resilience, Electoral Power

Addressing the growing instability in the Sahel—a region that serves as Algeria’s strategic depth—Goudjil highlighted the complexities of the situation, underlining that Algeria is “fighting on multiple fronts.” He pointedly asked, “Who is financing terrorism in the Sahel?”—a rhetorical question that brings into focus the opaque networks behind regional instability. Goudjil noted that the recent awakenings across Africa have enabled the emergence of the truth, reflecting a broader continental struggle for liberation from neocolonial interference.

Goudjil emphasized that Algeria’s strength lies not only in its military might but in the resilience of its people, particularly through their massive participation in the electoral process. “One of the factors of our power is the massive participation in the presidential election,” he stated, stressing the importance of this political engagement both domestically and within the Algerian diaspora. Such unity and maturity, he argued, would send a powerful message to those who seek to undermine Algeria. He framed this civic engagement as central to the nation’s democratic ethos: “This is the true meaning we must give to democracy in Algeria,” he asserted.

Reflecting on the challenges Algeria faces from certain foreign powers, Goudjil recalled the recent episode involving the illicit introduction of weapons from France. He expressed skepticism over the role of French security services, questioning their conspicuous absence during a time of heightened vigilance. He credited Algeria’s own security forces, particularly the People’s National Army (ANP), with thwarting this attempt to destabilize the country, underscoring their “great vigilance.”

The veteran politician also delved into the historical roots of the ANP, tracing its lineage back to the National Liberation Army (ALN). Following Algeria’s independence, Goudjil recounted, there was a concerted effort by the French colonial administration to shape the nascent Algerian army. This plan was foiled, Goudjil explained, ensuring that the ANP would inherit the revolutionary legacy of the ALN, becoming a force intrinsically linked to the Algerian people and their national identity. “Our army remains, to this day, tied to the nation and its people,” he affirmed.

Turning to the enduring issue of Western Sahara, Goudjil situated the conflict within a broader historical context, dating back to 1960 when many African nations gained independence. He highlighted the expansionist ambitions of Morocco, which rejected the independence of Mauritania and laid claim to its territory—a stance that led to armed conflict with Algeria in 1963. Goudjil further criticized Morocco’s actions in 1975 when, following Spain’s withdrawal from Western Sahara, it divided the territory with Mauritania. He recalled an offer made by Morocco to Algeria for territorial access to the Atlantic Ocean, which was categorically refused by then-President Houari Boumediene.

As the interview drew to a close, Goudjil reflected on the upcoming presidential election, describing it as a critical juncture in Algeria’s history. He made clear his unwavering support for President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, expressing hope that Tebboune would continue his work at the helm of the country. “I have said it from the beginning: I support President Tebboune, and I hope to see him continue his mission leading the nation,” Goudjil declared with conviction.