A Pattern of Censorship: The At Wasif book Fair Incident

The recent exclusion of Koukou Editions from the Amazigh Amazigh Salon of At Wasif,allegedly under the directive of the Ministry of culture,is not an isolated event. Instead, it underscores a disturbing trend of increasing censorship and control within the region.This incident, characterized by some as a form of ideological policing, highlights a system were fear and manipulation appear to be instruments of governance.

The silence surrounding this act of repression is particularly alarming. The absence of vocal opposition from intellectuals and cultural figures raises questions about the state of freedom of expression. Has intimidation stifled critical thought, leaving a void where once robust debate thrived?

Kabylia Under Pressure: A Region Targeted

This exclusion occurs amidst a backdrop of increasing restrictions on cultural and political expression. Reports indicate a rise in political prisoners, banned festivals, closed literary cafes, and restricted book sales. These actions suggest a deliberate effort to suppress autonomous thought and cultural initiatives, particularly within Kabylia.

Kabylia, in particular, seems to be a focal point of this suppression, with authorities seemingly obsessed with enforcing a rigid and disconnected vision of “national unity.” Any independent event or cultural celebration is perceived as a threat, leading to attempts to control and manipulate these expressions.

The Wider implications: beyond a Single Publishing House

The Koukou Editions affair extends beyond the fate of a single publishing house. It represents a broader assault on the cultural landscape and the right to self-determination. The core issue is the attempt to control history, language, and identity through bureaucratic channels, effectively erasing cultural diversity.

The current silence from intellectual elites stands in stark contrast to the spirit of the Berber Spring of 1980, a pivotal moment in the fight for democratic and cultural rights. That movement, once a symbol of cultural awakening, now appears to be diluted and co-opted, celebrated superficially while its true essence is suppressed.

A Call to Action: Defending Cultural Spaces

It is imperative to revitalize the spirit of resistance and support the remaining spaces for open dialogue, such as the At Wasif book fair. These spaces, often operating under immense pressure, must be protected from those who seek to control and censor cultural expression.

Thinking, writing, publishing, and reading are inherently political acts. In an era of repression, silence is tantamount to complicity. It is crucial to resist the encroachment of doctrinaire bureaucrats and disguised censors and to ensure that culture remains free from manipulation.

Koukou Editions’ Perspective: A Press release

Koukou Editions released a statement detailing their exclusion from the Amazigh book fair of At Wasif. According to the statement, the decision was communicated via email by the fair’s commissioner, citing sources close to the wilaya of Tizi Ouzou.The statement alleges that Mr. Tidjani Tama, president of the Censure Commission of the Ministry of Culture and Arts, was responsible for the exclusion.

This new assault against a publishing house which activates in legality, and whose publications are available in the largest bookstores in the country, this time has a very particular symbolism. It comes a few days after the 45th anniversary of a confiscated Berber spring, reducing the message of struggles and hopes of this start of dignity to its folk expression.

Koukou Editions Press Release, April 30, 2025

The press release also highlights the exclusion of prominent intellectuals and cultural figures dedicated to promoting Amazigh language and culture, including Tassadit Yacine, Salem Chaker, and the late Mouloud Mammeri. This exclusion underscores the extent of the crackdown on Amazigh cultural expression.

Koukou Editions emphasizes the importance of protecting the At Wasif book fair as one of the last remaining spaces for free debate in the region. They urge support for the fair’s organizers and encourage the purchase of books from participating authors and publishers.

Despite the challenges, Koukou Editions remains committed to upholding an autonomous editorial line and resisting the promotion of sectarian ideologies.

In the crusade launched by the Milicians of Thought to promote a sectarian, intolerant and retrograde ideology, Koukou Editions will continue to oppose the force of law, and to assume with determination an autonomous editorial line and open to society.

koukou Editions Press Release, April 30, 2025