Algerian election: Press release from the Ministry of the Interior of the Kabyle government in exile

Algerian election: Press release from the Ministry of the Interior of the Kabyle government in exile
7 September 2024

Massive boycott of the Algerian presidential elections in Kabylia

The Ministry of the Interior of the Kabyle Government in Exile hereby wishes to set the record straight following the recent presidential elections imposed by the Algerian regime in Kabylia. The colonial power claims an official turnout of 11%, a figure which is already low and which, in itself, reflects the massive rejection of the colonial regime by the Kabyle people, since 89% of Kabyle citizens refused to take part in this masquerade. However, we strongly believe that this percentage, which already indicates overwhelming opposition, is grossly overestimated. According to our reliable and well-informed sources, the real turnout in Kabylia did not exceed 1%, testifying to the almost unanimous refusal of the population to legitimise this spurious election.

Today, Kabylia was frozen in a silence fraught with meaning. The streets were deserted, shops were closed and even public transport had ceased to operate. This complete halt in activity was evidence of a massive boycott, reflecting the people’s rejection of any attempt to impose a sham election under threat of arms and repression.

Throughout election day, Kabylia was transformed into a veritable entrenched camp, subjected to a disproportionate crackdown. Colonial forces – police, gendarmerie, army and civilian police in large numbers – laid siege to our towns and villages, in a desperate attempt to stifle the voice of a people resolutely committed to refusing oppression. This repressive mobilisation was aimed above all at neutralising any demonstration of Kabyle will and silencing the legitimate impulses of a people who can no longer tolerate imposed submission.

In addition, we have received damning reports from people requisitioned to organise this pseudo-vote, concerning massive fraud orchestrated in several polling stations. These frauds, far from being anecdotal, underline the fragility of a regime that is struggling to disguise the profound disaffection it is suffering in Kabylia.

The boycott of this election is not a simple act of disobedience. It is part of a dynamic of active and peaceful resistance against the colonial yoke. It is a clear and indisputable expression of the will of the Kabyle people to break definitively with the colonial order imposed by Algiers.

So, despite attempts to manipulate the figures, the message from the Kabyle people remains crystal clear: Kabylia will only vote for its independence. We call on the international community to recognise the legitimacy of our aspiration to self-determination and to support our struggle for freedom and sovereignty.

Long live free and independent Kabylia

Mounir BOUTEGRABET
Minister of the Interior of the Kabyle government in exile (ANAVAD)