Jean-Michel Aphatie Resigns from RTL Following Controversial Remarks on Algeria's Colonial History

The journalist refuses to return to the radio station, citing his suspension as a punishment he cannot accept for comments comparing French actions in Algeria to the Oradour-sur-Glane massacre.

Jean-Michel Aphatie announced his resignation from RTL after being suspended for a week over controversial remarks about France's colonial history in Algeria.
During a February broadcast, Aphatie compared French actions in Algeria to the 1944 Nazi massacre in Oradour-sur-Glane, sparking significant backlash and formal complaints to the French audiovisual regulator, Arcom.
Aphatie stated that returning to RTL would imply acknowledging wrongdoing, which he refuses to do, maintaining that his comments were historically grounded and intended to provoke reflection.
He expressed regret over the situation but emphasized his commitment to addressing France's colonial legacy, which he described as horrifying based on historical accounts he has studied.
The controversy comes at a time of heightened tension between France and Algeria, underscoring the sensitivity of discussions around colonial history.