Algeria Using Morocco as a Scapegoat is an ‘Old Tactic’

Denver- As the gap continues to widen between Algeria and Morocco, critics are accusing the Algerian government of once again trying to blame domestic issues on Morocco, to cover up government mishandling of several recent crises.

In a recent publication by the BBC, analysts noted that Algeria’s recent belligerent actions against Morocco are nothing new. In fact, critics say it is an “old tactic to divert attention from the regime’s spectacular failure in dealing with domestic problems.” These failures include the regime’s inadequate response to the recent forest fires that killed nearly 100 people, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the exorbitantly high national unemployment rate amid a structural economic crisis. 

Algeria’s solution for diverting national anger away from the political establishment has always been the same: Place the blame on Morocco through unsubstantiated claims and hope the situation disappears. However, with the recent BBC report, it’s clear that there are those in the international community who have now also observed Algeria’s subversive tactics.   

According to the BBC report, Algeria’s “blame game” tactics “straight from the textbook of totalitarian states.” By placing blame on foreign actors and the media, the Algerian government continues to operate in a tightly knit group of corrupt actors for decades. 

The BBC report stated the Algerian political establishment has been “run by a clique for decades,” mostly consisting of a “military holding the reins of power behind a civilian facade.” The deeply entrenched politicians have exploited the country’s deep oil reserves to “line their pockets” at the expense of Algeria’s people. 

Now, with international news outlets reporting on the situation, Algeria’s politicians can no longer hide behind Morocco as a fall guy for the continued deception of its people. Young people in Algeria are beginning to show their desire for real political change in the country. With shouts of “all of them must resign,” these young protesters may be Algeria’s best hope for a better future.