Algerian Mujahideen Minister, Eid Rabiqa, yesterday condemned the vandalism of a sculpture of anti-colonial freedom fighter and national hero, Emir Abdelkader, in the French city of Amboise on Saturday.
The minister described the attack as an “uncivilised action.”
Reporters said the sculpture was vandalised just hours before it was inaugurated as a symbol of Franco-Algerian reconciliation on Saturday.
Abdelkader was imprisoned in Amboise from 1848 to 1852, during the French occupation of Algeria.
Thierry Boutard, Amboise mayor, said he was “ashamed” of those responsible and decided to proceed with the inauguration ceremony regardless.
“My second sentiment is of course one of indignation … This is a day of harmony and unity and this kind of behaviour is unspeakable,” he add.
The steel sculpture by artist Michel Audiard was commissioned to mark the 60th anniversary of Algeria’s independence from France.
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