The Assassination of Abane Ramdane and the Establishment of Algeria's 'System'
Ishaango News
Summary
Abane Ramdane, a leading figure in Algeria's revolution, was assassinated in late 1957, an event that shaped the country's future. His death followed internal disputes within the FLN after the Soummam Congress, which aimed to prioritize political over military control. Accusations of triggering the Battle of Algiers further isolated him. Lured to Morocco, Ramdane was killed by rivals, including Krim Belkacem and Abdelhafid Boussouf. His elimination marked the start of a power consolidation, leading to a coup and the establishment of Algeria's current political system. Ramdane's legacy includes advocating for a civil state, a vision disrupted by his assassination and the subsequent rise of military influence.
In late December 1957, Abane Ramdane, a key figure in the Algerian revolution, was assassinated, marking a pivotal moment in the rise of what is now known as the "System" in Algeria. Ramdane, instrumental in uniting moderate factions and various political currents under the FLN, was eliminated under orders from rivals within the movement. This act paved the way for the nationalist faction to seize control, shaping Algeria's future leadership.
Ramdane's pivotal role in organizing the Soummam Congress in August 1956, held in the Kabylie region, aimed to coordinate efforts among the internal wilayas and establish critical principles, including the primacy of politics over military affairs and the rejection of theocratic Islamist agendas. However, this congress sparked fierce internal conflict, with external factions viewing it as a power grab by Kabyles. Ahmed Ben Bella, then in Cairo, strongly criticized the congress for its lack of representation and its secular stance.
The French victory during the Battle of Algiers further fueled the crisis within the FLN, leading to accusations against Ramdane. Accused of triggering the battle recklessly, his fate was sealed.
The details of Ramdane's assassination, as revealed in "Un Crime d’État. Règlements de comptes au cœur du pouvoir algérien," highlight the involvement of Krim Belkacem and Abdelhafid Boussouf. Lured to Tétouan, Morocco, Ramdane was ambushed and killed, marking the beginning of a series of eliminations that consolidated power among certain figures, ultimately leading to the coup in July 1962 and the establishment of the "System" that continues to influence Algerian politics today.