Spokesman Report
Islamabad: The Embassy of Algeria is deeply saddened to announce the news of the demise of Mr. LIAMINE ZEROUAL, former President of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria (during the period 1994-1999) who passed away on Sunday 29th March 2026. In this regard, a book of condolence will be opened at the Embassy premises House No. 107, Street No. 9, Sector E-7, Islamabad, from Wednesday 1st April from 10:00am.-12:00 and 2:00pm.-4:00pm till Thursday 2nd April 2026 from 10:00am.-12:00p.m. and 2:00pm. – 4:00pm.
Liamine Zeroual (1941-2026) was a prominent Algerian military and political figure who served as President of the Republic (1994-1999). He joined the National Liberation Army (ALN) in 1957 and held high-ranking leadership positions in the People’s National Army (ANP) after independence. He led Algeria during the “Black Decade” in the fight against terrorism, established the National Concord Law, and was known as a “statesman” who laid the foundations for the peaceful transfer of power.
Military Career:
- Birth: Born on July 3, 1941, in Batna.
- War of Independence: Joined the National Liberation Army at the age of 16 (1957).
- Training: Received military training in the Soviet Union and the French War College (1974).
- Responsibilities: Commander of the Cherchell Military Academy and commanded several military regions (3rd, 5th, and 6th).
- Appointed Commander of the Land Forces with the rank of General Major.
- He resigned from the army in 1989.
Political Career:
- He was appointed ambassador to Romania (1990-1991), resigning after a year.
- He was appointed Minister of National Defense in July 1993.
- He assumed the presidency on January 31, 1994, and was elected president on November 16, 1995, remaining in office until April 27, 1999.
His Most Notable Achievements and Positions:
- Civil Concord: He was known as a stabilization force through his “Civil Concord Law”, aimed at ending the “Black Decade” (a period of intense violence and conflict). He played a key role in combating terrorism and ensuring security, peace, and stability.
- Transfer of Power: He handed over power to the late President Abdelaziz Bouteflika after resigning and calling early multi-candidatures of presidential elections, stating, “I left my post to teach Algerians the meaning of the peaceful transfer of power.”
