Algerian journalist Hafiz Draji has once again resorted to spreading falsehoods on social media, claiming that his country’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amar Benjamaa, has been named Person of the Year. In a Facebook post, Draji alleged that Benjamaa, Algeria’s representative to the Security Council, “transcended the boundaries of traditional diplomacy to become the voice of the oppressed and the conscience of the free.” The post included a fabricated image of Benjamaa on the cover of Time magazine. Draji further claimed that Benjamaa “represented not only Algeria but also Gaza, Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, Iran, Yemen, and Qatar,” portraying him as a “messenger of truth against falsehood” and a “champion of peace who exposed Israeli crimes and the complicity of major powers.” He concluded by praising Benjamaa as “a true man, a true Algerian who raised the name of his country high and proved that Algeria does not deviate from its historical positions.”
Following the post, Draji faced harsh criticism for spreading lies and misinformation regarding the alleged Time magazine award. Egyptian journalist Emad Fouad stated that Draji had posted a completely fabricated image claiming it was the cover of Time magazine featuring Benjamaa as Person of the Year. Fouad confirmed that Time magazine had not published any such cover. He criticized Draji for creating “fictitious victories and cardboard heroes,” celebrating non-existent achievements. After the controversy and numerous denials, Draji edited his post, removing the fabricated image.
