Lakhdar Bouragaa, a prominent Algerian moudjahid and member of the historic wilaya IV council, was laid to rest on Thursday at the Sidi Yahia cemetery in Algiers. He passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 87. A large crowd attended the funeral to pay their respects to the deceased. Bouragaa was born in 1933 in El Oumaria, Médéa province, and had a long history of involvement in Algeria's struggle for independence.

Bouragaa's journey as a moudjahid began when he deserted the French army, where he was serving his military service, to join the Algerian National Liberation Front (ALN) in wilaya 4. He went on to become the chief of zone 2 from 1959 to 1960 and later a member of the last council of wilaya 4 before independence, holding the rank of commander. His dedication to the cause earned him recognition as a loyal moudjahid and a symbol of the national liberation struggle.

Tributes poured in from high-ranking officials following Bouragaa's passing. Salah Goudjil, interim President of the Council of the Nation, described Bouragaa as a "loyal moudjahid" and a "symbol of the national liberation struggle". Goudjil's sentiments were echoed by Prime Minister Abdelaziz Djerad, who remembered Bouragaa as a "militant and defender of his convictions for change, to which he remained faithful throughout his life".

The Algerian government and military leadership also paid their respects to Bouragaa. General Saïd Chanegriha, Chief of Staff of the People's National Army, extended his condolences to Bouragaa's family and colleagues on behalf of the army. Tayeb Zitouni, Minister of Moudjahidine and Rights Holders, hailed Bouragaa as a "devoted man" and a "hero of the War of Liberation".

Ammar Belhimer, Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson, sent a message of condolences to Bouragaa's family, praising the moudjahid's courage, patriotism, and commitment to defending rights and freedoms. These tributes reflect the impact Bouragaa had on Algerian society and politics.

Bouragaa's legacy as a champion of Algerian independence and a dedicated public servant will be remembered by many. His contributions to the country's history, particularly during the War of Liberation, have left a lasting impression. As the nation mourns his loss, his memory will continue to inspire future generations.

The burial of Lakhdar Bouragaa marked the end of an era for Algeria, as the country lost a prominent figure who dedicated his life to the struggle for independence and the betterment of his nation. His commitment to his ideals and his country has earned him a revered place in Algerian history.

Key points

  • Lakhdar Bouragaa, 87, was buried in Algiers' Sidi Yahia cemetery after a lifetime of dedication to Algeria's independence struggle.
  • Bouragaa was a prominent member of the historic wilaya IV council and held the rank of commander.
  • Algerian leaders and officials paid tribute to Bouragaa, hailing him as a loyal moudjahid, a symbol of the national liberation struggle, and a devoted public servant.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.