Chems-Eddine Hafiz collects appointments with History. That of Algeria where he was born in 1954 (historic year) and that of France where for 2 years, he has been guiding Muslims as rector of the Great Mosque of Paris (critical period).
You know his face as a lawyer at the Paris bar and some of his fights, since his career is marked by trials that tell of a certain France (whether it’s the Mohamed Khouas & Sohane Benziane case, two racist crimes, whether it’s the the Houellebecq affair or that of Charlie Hebdo). But peace be upon Chems-eddine Hafiz, his France is that of Flaubert and secularism. His Africa that of Mandela, Bourguiba and Senghor, his creed that of Arab humanism. He pleads for justice (when attacking the prophet) and prays for knowledge (when declaring Islam to be the most stupid religion). A thousand and one nights of questions to ask this rector who announces the color in No offense to some, we are the children of the Republic to Editions Kero: “I say to Muslims: learn your religion. And to non-Muslims: do not be afraid.”
The musical choices of Chems-eddine Hafiz
Eric Clapton, B.B. King When my heart beats like a hammer
Lila Borsali Rawdhat el Ochaq