In 1986, the national anthem was amputated from its third verse by a decision of the Algerian authorities at the time. The circumstances and reasons for this decision require clarification by historians. The third verse of the national anthem quotes France and explains the main reason for the armed struggle led by the Algerian people to liberate Algeria from colonial occupation. It marks the determination of the Algerians to put an end to French colonialism after a number of popular revolutions, which were savagely repressed and failed. Particularly, the peaceful demonstrations of May 8, 1945, instructed the Algerians that the armed struggle was the only way to national liberation.

In this third verse, the Algerians call out France by name and let them know that “Past is the time of palavers. We closed it as one closes a book.” They announce to France that “the day has come when you have to be accountable. Get ready! Here is our answer: The verdict is that our Revolution will deliver. Because we are determined that Algeria should live, so be our witness—be our witness—be our witness!” This is followed by the famous phrase “Fa Ach hadou!” repeated three times, which means “Be our witness!”

Naturally, the verse in question has not been well-received by those who hold a nostalgic attachment to French Algeria. These individuals were undoubtedly pleased to see it removed from the national anthem in 1986. Conversely, Algerians were surprised by its suppression. Meanwhile, the lobbies of French Algeria and those who long for the former French colonial empire, both in Africa and beyond, are working tirelessly to maintain their influence within the state’s machinery, particularly in decision-making centers.

The presidential decree serves as a reminder of the circumstances under which the national anthem is to be interpreted, either in whole or in part, as well as the musical scores, complete or reduced, to be played during official ceremonies. It is worth noting that “Qassamen!” or “we pledge”, “the oath,” or “we swear” was declared the national anthem in September 1963, by the first Constitution of independent Algeria.

Regarding the lyrics of the national anthem, “Qassaman!”, historians confirm that it was in 1955 when the poet Moufdi Zakaria, who ran a cloth business in rue Blandan (currently Boualem Rahal) in Algiers, was approached by the mujahid Lakhdar Rebbah to write the text of the national anthem. This was done on the orders of the leaders of the Armed Revolution. Abane Ramdane had proposed the creation and adoption of a hymn during a meeting in 1955. Remarkably, the poem was written in less than 24 hours, the day after the meeting between the two men.

Moufdi Zakaria, a prominent Algerian writer, is credited with penning the text of the country’s national anthem. However, there are some misconceptions surrounding the circumstances under which he wrote the anthem. Contrary to popular belief, Zakaria did not write “Qassaman!” while he was incarcerated. Instead, he composed several other patriotic songs while in prison, but not the national anthem.

It was actually Zakaria’s friend, Lakhdar Rebbah, who brought the anthem to Abane Ramdane, who was in hiding in Algiers at the time. Rebbah had received the anthem from Zakaria, who was still at large, and brought it to Ramdane’s apartment in the Ruisseau district.

The melody for the anthem was composed by the Egyptian musician Mohamed Fawzi, after two unsuccessful attempts by Algerian Mohamed Touri and Tunisian Mohamed Triki. The final touch, including the iconic drum roll that opens the anthem, was added by Algerian Haroun Rachid while he was in detention.

In conclusion, the national anthem of Algeria holds great significance and is a source of pride for its people. The recent presidential decree serves as a reminder of the importance of this symbol and its proper interpretation during official ceremonies.