An Algerian court on Tuesday upheld a five-year prison sentence against dual-national author Boualem Sansal, whose case has strained ties with France.

Sansal, 80, was first sentenced to five years behind bars on March 27 on charges related to undermining Algeria's territorial integrity over comments made to a French media outlet.

The appeals court confirmed the sentence after prosecutors sought to double his jail term, an AFP journalist reported from the hearing.

Sansal was informed he has eight days to file a further appeal before Algeria's supreme court.

His newly appointed French lawyer, Pierre Cornut-Gentille, said he would consult with his client before deciding whether to pursue another legal challenge.

Following the verdict, French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou said he hoped Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebbone would grant Sansal a pardon.

"Now that the sentence has been handed down, we can imagine pardon measures, particularly in view of our compatriot's health, will be taken," said Bayrou, calling the situation........

© Al Monitor