French Politician Faces Backlash Over Vote Against Writer’s Liberation

Rima Hassan's opposition to a European resolution for Boualem Sansal's release sparks criticism across political lines.

The European Parliament overwhelmingly passed a resolution demanding the release of Boualem Sansal, a Franco-Algerian writer imprisoned in Algeria since November 2024.
Rima Hassan, a member of La France Insoumise (LFI), voted against the resolution, citing concerns over its alleged political instrumentalization by right-wing groups.
Hassan's vote has drawn widespread condemnation from both the left and right in France, with critics accusing her of aligning with the Algerian regime.
The resolution, which received 533 votes in favor, called for Sansal's immediate release and highlighted broader human rights abuses in Algeria.
Hassan defended her position by claiming the resolution was being used to escalate diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria.