A participation by Algerian comedian Mohamed Khassani in a Moroccan music video has sparked significant controversy. In the video for the rapper “Mr. Draganov,” Khassani is seen dancing throughout the duration of the song, which has led to a wave of criticism on social media platforms in Algeria.
Many Algerian commentators believe that Khassani’s appearance, dancing in front of a sitting Moroccan singer, damages both his image and that of Algeria as a whole. Some described the scene as “humiliating” and “demeaning,” asserting that it portrays Khassani in a position unbefitting an Algerian representative.
Several critics have called for Khassani’s artist card to be revoked, accusing him of “distorting the image of Algeria.” This is not the first time he has faced severe criticism for his roles.
In his first response to the uproar, Khassani defended his participation in the video, stating that it does not warrant such exaggeration. In a press statement, he said, “I am an artist, and what I did is not an offense. I stand with my country and its authorities. This artistic participation does not diminish my affiliation.”
Khassani noted that dancing has been part of his artistic toolkit in his comedic performances for years, adding that the video is purely artistic and not politically or symbolically charged in a way that threatens national dignity.
The ongoing debate has highlighted a clear division within Algerian public opinion. Some view Khassani’s appearance as a “deviation from established principles,” while others consider it a natural artistic step that helps to break cultural barriers between Algeria and Morocco.
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