Algeria: 10 years in prison for vandalized the statue of the naked woman in Sétif

An Algerian was sentenced to ten years in prison for degrading the famous statue of “naked woman” in Sétif, in the east of the country. The facts go back to this week, when he was arrested in the act after damaging the face of the statue, visibly under the influence of alcohol.

Already convicted in 2018 for a similar attempt, the defendant received this time with a heavy penalty for vandalism of a cultural monument, destruction of public goods and violence against the police. Installed since 1898, the statue “Ain El Fouara” is regularly the target of attacks. She disturbs some for her nudity, inherited from the colonial era. Four attempts at destruction have already been recorded, often linked to religious or legal motivations.

However, it is essential to firmly condemn these acts of degradation, which are neither a spirit of sincere piety nor a defense of Islam. These statues, as questionable as their history may be, are not the subject of any worship of worship. Islam, in its essence, commands neither violence against symbols of heritage nor intolerance in the face of historical heritage. It is through knowledge, debate and preservation of the common good that a society is built faithful to its principles.