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The Algerian Government has declared three days of mourning following the death of one of its former presidents, 84-year-old Liamine Zeroual.
Algeria’s presidency said he had died at a military hospital in Algiers after a serious illness, adding that flags would fly at half-mast across the country.
Zeroual was a former soldier who led a transitional administration and served as the country’s president from 1994 to 1999. He was born on July 3, 1941, in the eastern city of Batna. Zeroual served in Algeria’s National Liberation Army (FLN), which fought for independence from France
The Algerian former president organised the country’s first multi-party presidential election in 1995, winning by a wide margin.
He cut short his five-year term in 1998, making way for Abdelaziz Bouteflika to succeed him and lead Algeria for 20 years.
Even in retirement, he remained respected.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, expressed sorrow after learning of his demise and extended his condolences to the government and citizens of Algeria, as well as Zeroual’s family.
He described him as a steadfast statesman whose life was defined by sacrifice, dignity, and an unwavering commitment to Algeria’s sovereignty and unity.
Youssouf added that Zeroual’s leadership during a critical period in Algeria’s history reflected courage, restraint, and a deep sense of responsibility to his people and nation.
