Following public backlash, Abdelilah Benkirane apologizes to Algerians
The Secretary-General of the Moroccan Justice and Development Party, Abdelilah Benkirane, was forced to issue an apology to the Algerian people following intense backlash over remarks perceived as insulting to Algerian women. The incident occurred during a party parliamentary meeting, when Benkirane made a sarcastic comment regarding the Algerian origins of lawmaker Mustapha El Ibrahimi’s mother while the latter was preparing to recite the Quran. The comment sparked widespread anger on social media, with activists declaring that the dignity of Algerian women is a red line and highlighting their historical sacrifices. Facing heavy pressure, Benkirane clarified that he did not intend to offend, describing his words as a joke. He emphasized his high regard for the Algerian people, acknowledging their long history of religious devotion and resistance.