Jailed French journalist drops appeal in Algeria, eyes presidential pardon

The 36-year-old sports reporter, currently imprisoned in Algeria, has decided to drop his case before the Court of Cassation – a step described by his family as both calculated and symbolic.

Speaking on France Inter radio on Tuesday, his mother Sylvie Godard said the decision reflected a deliberate show of trust in Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

“He is placing his complete trust in President Tebboune's clemency. It is a very powerful, symbolic gesture,” she said.

The family believes the move could significantly improve the chances of a pardon, particularly as diplomatic relations between France and Algeria show signs of warming after a prolonged period of tension.

Christophe Gleizes was arrested in May 2024 while reporting in the Kabylie region and was later sentenced on appeal in December to seven years in prison on charges of “glorifying terrorism” – allegations his supporters strongly contest.

Algerian court increases jail time for French journalist convicted of 'terrorism'

Hopes rise amid diplomatic thaw

Gleizes' relatives are cautiously optimistic that a recent improvement in bilateral ties could work in his favour. His stepfather, Francis Godard, pointed to a shifting political climate between the two countries as a key factor.

“If Christophe is in prison, it is also because of opposition and a climate of hostility between our two countries,” he said, adding that recent developments suggest “a new phase” in relations.

A notable moment came with the February visit of French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez to Algeria, where he met President Tebboune. The trip marked an effort to ease a diplomatic crisis that had been simmering since the summer of 2024.

French minister in Algeria to ease relations, while journalist remains jailed

For the family, these developments offer a glimmer of hope.

They were able to visit Gleizes on 21 April at Koléa prison, west of Algiers, and described him as resilient. “He is strong. And he makes us fight for him,” said his mother.

Support has also come from prominent figures, including former French minister Ségolène Royal, now head of the France-Algeria association, who visited the journalist again on 1 May. According to the family, she too found him “in good spirits”.

(With newswires)