France denies Algeria’s extradition request for Kabyle opposition leader

In a significant legal development, Aksel Bellabbaci, a prominent Kabyle opposition figure, was released on Wednesday by a Paris appeals court, which rejected Algeria’s extradition request related to terrorism charges. The court’s decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing tensions between Algeria and the Kabyle movement.

“The extradition request is without object,” declared the president of the extradition chamber, eliciting applause from Bellabbaci's supporters present in the courtroom. The 42-year-old vice president of the Movement for the Self-Determination of Kabyle (MAK) has resided in France since 2012.

Algeria has accused Bellabbaci of orchestrating devastating wildfires in Kabylia that claimed 90 lives in August 2021, alongside instigating the mob killing of painter Djamel Bensmaïl, who was mistakenly identified as an arsonist while aiding in firefighting efforts.

“This brings great relief,” remarked defense attorney Gilles-William Goldnadel, emphasizing that “it’s a beautiful day for French justice.”

The decision is likely to provoke a strong reaction from Algeria, where Bellabbaci faces 14 charges, some of which carry the death penalty—an extreme measure still legally permissible despite a moratorium in effect since 1993. He has not set foot in Algeria since August 2019.

Outside the courtroom, Bellabbaci expressed determination, stating, “The fight continues because we won’t stop here. The Kabyle people are innocent of the accusations made by the Algerian regime.”

The Kabyle struggle for autonomy

The Kabyle people have long sought greater autonomy from the Algerian state, a struggle that traces back to post-colonial Algeria following independence from French rule in July 1962. Their quest for self-determination has been marked by significant historical events, including the war of Kabylia (1963-1965), the At Yiraten protests in June 1974, and the 1980 revolt known as the “Amazigh Spring.”

The Amazigh community in Algeria, estimated at around 5.5 million, demands recognition of their cultural and linguistic rights, as well as political independence. This movement is primarily represented by MAK-ANAVAD, which consists of two branches: MAK, focused on grassroots activities, and the Provisional Kabylian Government (GPK), established in Paris in June 2010 for diplomatic engagements.

In a 2024 report, the U.S. State Department reiterated its stance that Algeria's designation of MAK as a terrorist organization is unfounded and politically motivated, reflecting internal political dynamics rather than legitimate security concerns.

This court ruling not only highlights the complexities of Algeria's national identity and the ongoing Kabyle struggle but also underscores the intricate relationship between justice and political repression in the region.