Franco-Algerian Author Kamel Daoud Faces Legal Complaints Over Novel "Houris"
Two legal complaints have been filed against Franco-Algerian author Kamel Daoud and his wife, psychiatrist Aicha Dehdouh, claiming they exploited a patient's story in Daoud's novel "Houris" without consent. Allegations include breaching medical confidentiality and violating laws on national reconciliation, raising debates about artistic freedom and ethical storytelling in Algeria.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
Two legal complaints have been filed in Algeria against renowned Franco-Algerian author Kamel Daoud and his wife, psychiatrist Aicha Dehdouh, alleging that they exploited a patient's story without consent in Daoud's award-winning novel, "Houris". The complaints, confirmed by the plaintiffs' lawyer, Fatima Benbraham, were lodged in Oran, where the couple resides.
Details of the Complaints
The plaintiffs claim that Daoud disclosed sensitive information about a survivor of an Islamist massacre during Algeria's civil war in the 1990s without obtaining her consent. The first complaint was filed on behalf of the National Organization of Victims of Terrorism, while the second was filed in the name of the victim herself. The complaints also assert that Dehdouh breached medical confidentiality by sharing her patient's details with her husband, a serious allegation under Algerian law.
Legal Context
The complaints reference the law on national reconciliation, which prohibits publications related to the civil war period from 1992 to 2002. This law aims to prevent the reopening of wounds from a traumatic chapter in Algeria's history.
Background on "Houris"
Kamel Daoud's novel "Houris" delves into the horrors of Algeria's "dark decade", focusing on the experiences of women during this tumultuous period. The novel has received critical acclaim and won the prestigious Prix Goncourt in November 2024. However, it has also faced controversy due to its sensitive subject matter and Daoud's critical perspective on Algerian society.
Reactions and Implications
The filing of these complaints has sparked significant debate within Algeria. While some view Daoud as a courageous voice addressing historical injustices, others see him as exploiting personal tragedies for literary gain. This situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding freedom of expression and the handling of Algeria's historical narratives.
Public Response
The legal actions against Daoud have drawn attention to broader issues regarding artistic freedom and the responsibilities of authors when dealing with real-life events and individuals' stories.
Conclusion
The legal challenges facing Kamel Daoud over "Houris" underscore the complexities involved in addressing sensitive historical subjects through literature. As these complaints proceed through the Algerian legal system, they will likely provoke further discussions about the balance between artistic expression and ethical considerations in storytelling. This case not only reflects on Daoud's work but also on how Algeria continues to grapple with its past and present narratives.
Table: Key Facts
| Case Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Plaintiffs | National Organization of Victims of Terrorism and the victim herself |
| Defendants | Kamel Daoud and Aicha Dehdouh |
| Allegations | Disclosure of sensitive information without consent, breach of medical confidentiality |
| Law referenced | Law on national reconciliation (1992-2002) |
| Novel | "Houris" by Kamel Daoud |
| Award | Prix Goncourt (November 2024) |
List: Key Players
- Kamel Daoud - Franco-Algerian author
- Aicha Dehdouh - Psychiatrist and Daoud's wife
- Fatima Benbraham - Plaintiffs' lawyer
- National Organization of Victims of Terrorism - Plaintiff
- The victim - Plaintiff
