Wilayas III and IV: A story of encounters and collaboration

Abstract

Wilaya III maintained cordial relations with Wilaya IV. Before November 1, 1954, Amar Ouamrane was sent to Mitidja, along with more than two hundred soldiers to work on the outbreak of the war. In March 1955, Ouamrane replaced Rabah Bitat as head of Zone IV. His friendship with Krim Belkacem facilitated his contacts with Kabylia. Two years later, Si M'Hamed Bouguera and Si Amirouche formed a good duo allowing the strengthening of ties between Kabylia and Algiers. The example of the battle of Ouled Yahya Moussa in January 1959 denotes the commitment of the two leaders for an effective military collaboration in the Revolution interest. With « l’affaire Si Salah », Mohand Oulhadj showed his differences with wilaya IV officials. Si Mohamed's reversal facilitated the resumption of contacts between the two leaders. The organization of the city of Algiers was, between 1960 and 1962, a point of contention between the leaders of the two wilayas. Mohand Oulhadj clung to this city which provided him with money from contributions. The situation hardly changed until after the signing of Accords d’Évian.

Key words: Si Mohamed, Si Salah, wilaya III, wilaya IV, Si M’Hamed Bouguera, Mohand Oulhadj,