Algerian Politics: Boukharrouba, Chengriha, and Tebboune
algeria’s Manufactured Hatred: A Legacy of Division and Self-Destruction
Table of Contents
The persistent animosity between Algeria and Morocco, a narrative deeply entrenched in the political discourse of both nations, finds its roots in a purposeful cultivation of hatred, a legacy that continues to plague the leadership of both Chengriha and Tebboune.
The Shadow of Boumediene: Forging a Narrative of Contempt
The seeds of this animosity were sown by Houari Boumediene, whose regime actively fostered a deep-seated resentment within the Algerian populace towards Morocco. This manufactured “Hogra,” or contempt, was a baseless accusation designed to alienate and demonize the Moroccan people. Boumediene’s narrative conveniently overlooked the profound solidarity Morocco extended to Algeria during its struggle for independence from 1954 to 1962. Morocco, under the leadership of its kings, provided unwavering political, military, financial, and human support, a level of commitment unmatched by any other nation.
A Glimmer of Hope dashed by Mistrust
In a meaningful diplomatic overture in March 2006, King Mohammed VI of Morocco made an almost official visit to Algeria on the sidelines of an Arab summit. This visit, a deliberate attempt to break down past barriers and foster a new understanding, saw the Moroccan monarch engage with President Bouteflika, explore algiers, and interact with the Algerian people. Despite the King’s genuine warmth and his deep-seated belief in the unity of peoples, his efforts were met with an Algeria still ensnared by a pervasive demon of mistrust. This suspicion was, and arguably remains, orchestrated by powerful figures within the Algerian state apparatus, such as General Toufik medine, who, surrounded by a cadre trained in animosity towards Morocco, continues to wield significant influence.
The Rise of the “New Algerian”: Aggression as a defining Trait
The enduring legacy of Boumediene’s era is the creation of a citizen conditioned to view Morocco with contempt, often referring to the Moroccan monarchy as the “Makhzen.” This manufactured aggressiveness was starkly evident during the recent Women’s Africa Cup of Nations hosted in morocco. Following their elimination by Ghana, Algeria unleashed its “electronic” forces, directing accusations at Morocco. This outburst, widely interpreted as a retaliatory response to morocco’s recognition of the Moroccanity of the sahara, a stance also adopted by Kenya, exemplifies a pattern of manufactured hostility.
The Algerian government’s subsequent campaign to discourage its citizens from participating in the African Cup of Nations, under the guise of saving them from “arrogance,” further underscores this deliberate policy of fostering animosity. Chengriha and Tebboune, by consistently aligning themselves with Boumediene’s legacy, find themselves cornered, resorting to a pathetic defensive posture against Morocco. They have, in essence, engineered a depoliticized Algerian citizen whose primary characteristic is an aggressive, almost self-hating, disposition. This phenomenon has given rise to a “New Algerian” – an individual engaged in a vitriolic and caricatured campaign of contempt towards the Moroccan people, mobilized through social networks, characterized by disrespect, arrogance, and an inflated ego. This is a hazardous path, one that prioritizes manufactured animosity over genuine reconciliation and mutual respect.