Rabat – The Algerian government has awarded the “Excellence in Journalism” prize to Mustapha Bounif, the editor-in-chief of Alhiwar, known for his inflammatory remarks against Morocco and its people.
Bounif, who has gained notoriety for his hostile content against Morocco, received the prestigious award from Algerian President Abdelmajid Tebboune for his publications that purportedly combat writings deemed antagonistic to Algeria.
The certificate of journalistic excellence was presented by the Algerian Minister of Information.
Algerian journalist Mustapha Bousbir receiving the “Excellence in Journalism” award
In a live video following the ceremony, Bounif expressed shock at the unexpected recognition and said he attended the ceremony as a regular journalist.
He recounted how his photo suddenly appeared, leading to “the entire government” inviting him on stage to receive the award.
Bounif confessed to needing the acknowledgment and asserted that Algeria has a duty to support not only him but all journalists engaged in a media war against Morocco on social platforms.
“I needed the [Algerian] state to pay attention and care, not only to Mustapha Bounif but to all journalists and influencers who are engaging in the media war against Western Israel [referring to Morocco],” he said.
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Fuelled by the award, Bounif intensified his vitriolic rhetoric against Morocco, making disparaging remarks about the country, its people, and public institutions.
He accused Moroccans of “lacking dignity, pride, knowledge, and morals,” portraying them as “impoverished, starved, dirty, naked, and enslaved by the King.”
Bounif went on to declare Moroccans as the worst enemies of Algeria, stressing that peace or reconciliation with them should be considered a sin.
In addition, he called on Algerian journalists, influencers, and public figures to rally behind him and join his hate campaign against Morocco and its people. “We should stand with our country in a fierce media battle against the dignity of the Algerian people,” he said.
This controversial move by the Algerian government and Bounif’s subsequent inflammatory comments could further escalate tensions between Algeria and Morocco.
