Si Mohand Oulhadj (1911-1972), a colonel in the Algerian National Liberation Army and commander of the Third Historic Wilaya during the Liberation War, held several important positions after independence, including commander of the Seventh Military Region, organization official in the National Liberation Front secretariat, and member of the Revolutionary Council.
Born on March 7, 1911, in the village of Bouzegane, Tizi Ouzou Province, he endured difficult family circumstances after his father’s death, which instilled in him patience and perseverance. He worked in blacksmithing and trade and contributed to improving the conditions of his community members, while also participating in political activities before the revolution.
He participated from the beginning in the Algerian Revolution, organizing meetings, collecting funds, and involving his family in revolutionary work. He progressed through military ranks until he became a colonel and commander of the Third Wilaya. He led operations against the French occupation and maintained the unity of the mujahideen, earning the title “Amghar” (Elder) in recognition of his wisdom.
After independence, he participated in raising the Algerian flag and assumed important military and political positions, taking part in some major political events after independence, before passing away on December 2, 1972, in France and being buried in his birthplace. In his honor, the University of Bouira was named after him.
