When Algerian fugitive Ahmed Zaoui arrives in New Zealand on a false passport just before Christmas 2002 and asks for asylum, it sparks a five-year security scandal.
New Zealand citizen and Algerian political activist Ahmed Zaoui has been released from prison after more than two years behind bars.
Zaoui was arrested at gunpoint in the city of Medea in 2023 for holding a political meeting at his home and commenting on the “politicaland human rights situation” in the country.
He was recognised as a refugee in New Zealand in 2003 and had returned to Algeria to be with friends and family.
“Overnight Mr Zaoui was released from prison in Algeria where he had been in prison for 28 months,” his lawyer Deborah Manning told the Herald.
“He was released along with other political prisoners, they had been arrested for writing a political communique talking about political freedom in Algeria.
“He’s back home with his family. It was obviously a very difficult time for him in prison and he has already had his first meal of homemade couscous and is just enjoying being back home with them and looking forward to restoring his health.”
Ahmed Zaoui has been released from prison after 28 months behind bars.
Manning said his release was a surprise to everyone, with him suddenly brought in front of a judge and told he is free to go.
“It has been a time filled with relief and much joy, it was really very good to hear him.
“He was actually in good spirits and actually his English has greatly improved because of someone he was imprisoned with who wanted to practice English.
“So he is typical Ahmed Zaoui, always an optimist and very pleased to be out and home with family and friends and community.”
Manning told the Herald Zaoui’s time in prison was difficult and his health has suffered, but he is relieved to be out and very keen to connect with loved ones and share some “good food”.
Ahmed Zaoui with his lawyer, Deborah Manning, in July 2007. Photo / Dean Purcell
Zaoui’s lawyer was unsure what his next steps will be or if he will return to New Zealand, but he isn’t expecting to face any further issues.
He was released on bail and took refuge with the Dominican order in Newton, Auckland, for three years while his lawyers argued deportation back to Algeria could lead to imprisonment or his death.
Manning became a key figure in the campaign to have Zaoui’s security risk certificate overturned.
