Algerian Comedian Sparks Outrage Over Moroccan Rap Video Appearance, Ministry Calls for Artistic Ethics

In the music video for the song "Tach" by rapper Draganov, the Algerian comedian is seen dancing in front of the seated Moroccan rapper. This posture is considered by some Algerian internet users as a "humiliation". They accuse Mohamed Khassani of having "damaged the image of his country", going so far as to demand the withdrawal of his artist’s card.

Faced with this ongoing controversy, the Algerian comedian broke his silence. "I am an artist, what I did does not deserve such controversy. I am with my country and with its authorities," he said, reaffirming his loyalty to his homeland. For its part, the Algerian Ministry of Culture and the Arts "considers the anchoring of noble professional values in the cultural and artistic milieu as a strategic choice to develop the sector and enhance the Algerian cultural and artistic heritage".

In a statement published on August 31, it announced a series of measures to strengthen ethics in artistic practice. "While reaffirming its constant support for freedom of creation and its encouragement, the Ministry of Culture and the Arts insists that this freedom can only flourish within the framework of the laws of the Republic, in accordance with the ethical charters governing artistic practice, and in respect of the higher interests of the Nation," relays TSA Algérie.

The supervising minister also instructed the National Council of Arts and Letters (CNAL) to accelerate the creation of an Artist Ethics Committee. Meanwhile, the actor from Oran has received the support of personalities such as actor Abdelkader Djeriou, influencer Rifka, or the famous actress Souhila Mallem. "I support Mohamed Khassani, whether he is right or wrong... Those who criticize him are haters and jealous people!" Mallem said.