LIBREVILLE, 30 MARCH 2026 – The Algerian presidency announced on Sunday evening the death of its former President, Liamine Zeroual, at the age of 84, according to Radio France internationale. Zeroual, born in 1941 in Batna, northeastern Algeria, was a key figure in the country’s liberation struggle and military history.
Born into a family deeply involved in the fight for Algerian independence, Zeroual joined the military following Algeria’s liberation. His military career took him to the former Soviet Union, Egypt, and France, where he earned a reputation as a skilled commander. He rose to the rank of general and became the commander of the Algerian Land Forces in 1989, only to leave the position the following year due to disagreements with his superiors.
Zeroual’s tenure as Minister of Defense during the “years of lead “was marked by the Algerian army’s conflict with Islamist groups, a period of violence and instability that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands. In 1995, he was elected president in the country’s first pluralistic election, a decision that caused friction within the military due to his dialogue with Islamist groups. Despite the ongoing violence, Zeroual’s resignation in 1998 and call for an early presidential election paved the way for Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s rise to power.
After his retirement from politics, Zeroual remained a popular figure in Algeria. His passing has prompted the declaration of a three-day national mourning period, with flags lowered across the nation and at diplomatic representations abroad.
Source: Radio France internationale
