GENEVA – In line with the demands of the Algerian people and as a result of the illegitimacy of the military junta ruling our country through various forms of state terrorism (unlawful kidnappings, torture, sexual abuse of prisoners of conscience, etc.), the editorial board of the Algiers Herald has decided to cease recognising the Algerian authorities as such. However, the Algiers Herald will recognise the Algerian people as an entity seeking independence from an occupying force. As a result of this new classification, the Algiers Herald’s stylebook and editorial line will be adjusted to reflect these changes.
The Algiers Herald encourages other media to follow suit, and equally encourages the Algerian people to appoint their own transitional government which would have the full backing of our non-profit media.
As a result of this decision, the Algiers Herald no longer recognises the validity of the press cards issued by the Algerian Ministry of Communication. This nonrecognition will be lifted once legitimate authorities are in place.
This decision is also motivated by the fact that the minister of Communication, Amar Belhimer’s own son, ; as a respected, credible media organisation, our reputation cannot be put at risk.
It is our duty as an independent media to set the example by abiding by the Algerian people’s demands, one of which is the rejection of the military junta roadmap, demonstrated three times in a row when less than 10% of eligible voters took part in the presidential election, less than 10% took part in the constitutional referendum and, again, less than 10% took part in June 12th’s legislative election.
A new accreditation body: the Algerian Press Card Authority (or APCA)
November 2021 will see the launch of the Algerian Press Card Authority, an independent press accreditation body under the direct supervision of the Algiers Herald.
The press card will be internationally recognised as discussions with international press organisations, NGOs and countries with legitimate governments will be undertaken. Furthermore, once launched, a brief will be sent to all United Nations member states, setting out the security features of the card and the verification process for said states to check a card’s authenticity and its cardholder’s identity.
The yearly membership cost including the card press’ issuance and delivery anywhere in Algeria will be $79 dollars; journalists and media professionals will be able to apply for membership through a dedicated website.