Controversy erupts over Egyptian preacher at Algiers International Book Fair

The 29th Algiers International Book Fair concluded amidst significant backlash following the appearance of Egyptian preacher Hala Samir. Videos circulating online showed her delivering radical, hardline religious sermons targeting feminists and secularists, sparking widespread public anger. In response, the fair’s organizers issued a statement clarifying that they did not invite the preacher to participate in the official cultural program. The organizers explained that her presence was limited to her role as a staff member for a foreign publishing house, where she was tasked with managing a booth and selling books, noting that she was not part of the event's official agenda.