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Rabat – Two members of Algeria’s military are facing up to 10 years behind bars for a TikTok video where they appeared in military uniform while celebrating Morocco’s national team’s win against Portugal in the World Cup’s quarter-finals.
In the video, the two soldiers said that they congratulate their “Moroccan brothers” for the win, stressing that Algerians and Moroccans are brothers. The two soldiers also wished the Atlas Lions good luck while dancing to a song.
According to a report from Moroccan media 360, the two soldiers were soon after arrested, and are facing charges of mixing sports and politics and using social media networks in a military base. Following the charges, the soldiers are undergoing trials in a military court.
While Algeria cited infringement of military policies as the reason behind the arrest, there is substantial evidence suggesting that the country simply does not tolerate its people’s fraternal sentiments toward Morocco.
Earlier today, reports surfaced indicating that Algeria’s government sacked on Sunday head of the Public Television Establishment (EPTV) Chabane Lounakel a day after the network aired news of Morocco’s qualification to the World Cup semi-finals.
The official’s sacking came as no surprise to observers who had noticed that Algerian media previously omitted Morocco from their coverage of the World Cup. These decisions ignored the country’s significant achievement this year as it is the first African and Arab country to reach the quarter-finals and the semi-finals of the most prestigious football tournament.
Last month, Algerian channel TV2 Algerie became the source of online mockery after featuring the results of three matches while omitting Morocco’s 2-0 victory against Belgium.
Algeria’s alternative media are striking a completely different tone from state-owned media on World Cup coverage. Digital media have reported on celebrations from Algeria following Morocco’s wins, with people seen waving Moroccan and Algerian flags.
Read Also: Morocco vs Portugal: Algeria Sacks Director of State-Owned TV Network
