Kabylia SOS: The Latest Human Rights Abuses

We draw the attention of international human rights organizations, media outlets, and diplomatic actors to the arbitrary arrests of several Kabyle citizens reported yesterday in At Douala (Kabylia, Algeria).

These arrests occurred on multiple roads leading to the home of Lounès Matoub, where citizens were attempting to gather peacefully to commemorate the anniversary of the assassination of Matoub Lounès, a prominent Kabyle singer, intellectual, and advocate for freedom of expression and cultural rights.

The individuals were reportedly detained without warrants, explanations, or legal justification, solely for attempting to participate in a peaceful act of remembrance. Such actions constitute serious violations of internationally protected rights, including freedom of movement, peaceful assembly, and cultural expression, as guaranteed under international human rights law to which Algeria is a signatory.

These events are not isolated. They are part of a broader pattern of repression by the Algerian state, particularly targeting Kabyle citizens through intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and the criminalization of memory and identity. Preventing citizens from honoring Matoub Lounès reflects a deliberate attempt to suppress historical truth and silence dissent.

We call on:

International human rights organizations to urgently investigate these arrests,

International media to report on these violations,

And Algerian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release all detained individuals and put an end to these repressive practices.

The memory of Matoub Lounès represents a universal struggle for dignity, freedom, and justice. It cannot be erased by repression.