The novel "Hawariyya" by author En'nam Bioud has stirred significant controversy in Algeria, especially after winning the "Asia Djebar" Award organized by the Ministry of Culture. Some have deemed its content insulting to the residents of the city of Oran, claiming the author promotes obscenity and vulgarity. The novel narrates the struggles of its protagonist, named "Hawariyya," during the dark decade from 1990 to 2000, highlighting the harsh conditions she faces in her city of Oran that lead her into the world of prostitution. However, certain content and terminology used by the author have drawn widespread criticism and shocked the residents of Oran.
In this context, activist Abdelhadi Belrahal stated that the novel "has insulted mothers, sisters, daughters, and all women, tarnishing the honor of the city of Oran and affecting its cultural heritage," calling on security and judicial authorities to pursue the author and hold her accountable to restore the dignity of women from Oran, expressing astonishment at her recognition by the country’s high authorities. Meanwhile, activist Hamla Nafaa demanded a legal complaint against the author, considering that its content distorts the portrayal of the men and women of Oran. Activist Mohamed Sahbi noted that the author overstepped by depicting an entire city, calling for collective action to sue her.
Conversely, activist Boukhelfa Ben Miloud expressed sympathy for the author amidst the fierce backlash she faced, adding that she has "touched on a sore point as vice is prevalent in reality and evident to everyone," according to him, pointing out that true creativity is not without controversy, and the author's work represents a form of intellectual freedom. In response to this ongoing debate, the publishing house "Mim," which published the novel, announced in a statement on Tuesday that it would cease its activities permanently.
The name "Hawariyya" for a woman or "Hawari" for a man is among the most famous nicknames in the city of Oran, derived from "Sidi Hawari al-Maghrabi," whose shrine is located in a popular neighborhood beneath the city center.
