Mohamed Meziane Reflects on the Significance and Legacy of the Interim Government on Its 65th Anniversary
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In an address on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of the founding of the interim (provisional) government of the Algerian Republic, Mr. Mohamed Meziane, Director General of Communication, Information, and Documentation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad, delivered a powerful speech highlighting the pivotal role of this institution in Algeria’s quest for independence. This landmark event, celebrated on September 19, marks a significant chapter in Algeria’s history, carrying immense historical and political importance.
The establishment of the interim government in 1958 was a watershed moment in the Algerian revolution, signaling the evolution of the struggle for independence. Mr. Meziane emphasized the multifaceted goals embedded within this announcement, which propelled the Algerian revolution into a new phase, consolidating the institutions of the nascent Algerian state.
This declaration originated from a decision made during the Soummam Conference, where the National Council of the Algerian Revolution, through its regulations and deliberations in August 1958, called for the creation of the interim government of the Algerian Republic. The Coordination and Implementation Committee took the mantle of bringing this vision to life within a year.
One of the primary motivations for the interim government’s establishment was the unification of the revolutionary leadership. It aimed to provide a unified platform for the Algerian people in negotiations with the French authorities, who had previously argued that there was no legitimate party with whom to negotiate. The interim government not only lent legal legitimacy to the armed struggle on the international stage but also facilitated coordination between the various historical factions, aligning their efforts towards a common goal.
Furthermore, the interim government laid the groundwork for the apparatus of leadership, adhering to state standards. It assumed administrative responsibilities, defined sovereign tasks, established administrative rules, and allocated resources to serve the revolution’s objectives. The interim government’s pivotal role in the Evian negotiations ultimately led to a ceasefire agreement signed on March 19, 1962, securing Algeria’s independence.
The diplomatic efforts initiated by the Interim Government were equally notable. Shortly after its formation, it launched a denunciation campaign at the United Nations in response to the colonial authorities’ announcement of a referendum on a new constitution. This initial effort paved the way for a series of diplomatic initiatives aimed at exposing the French colonizer and presenting the Algerian cause on the international stage. Thanks to the interim government, Algeria was able to participate in numerous global forums, especially in Africa and the Arab world.
As an enduring legacy of the Algerian revolution, Algeria’s post-independence diplomacy carried forward its revolutionary spirit. The nation actively strengthened its presence in the geopolitical landscape and extended its support to liberation movements worldwide, particularly in Africa. Algeria played a pivotal role in championing the cause of freedom from colonial domination, emphasizing principles such as non-interference in internal affairs, the right to self-determination for colonized peoples, support for just causes, peaceful conflict resolution, and the rejection of foreign military interventions.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Meziane underscored that the interim government of the Algerian Republic was the culmination of the Algerian people’s unwavering determination, unity, and commitment to liberating themselves from colonial oppression. It stood as a testament to four years of relentless struggle and sacrifice.
As the 65th anniversary of the Algerian Interim Government’s founding is commemorated, Mr. Meziane’s words serve as a poignant reminder of Algeria’s rich history, its enduring commitment to independence, and the invaluable lessons it imparts to the world on the principles of self-determination, justice, and peace.
