Following a wave of protests against Bouteflika, the interim president of Algeria, Abdelkader Bensalah, has announced that the country will now hold its election on the 4th of July this year.
Bensalah’s temporary appointment angered some protesters who, according to the BBC, had hoped for a more radical change in their leadership. “Following the announcement, crowds took to the streets of the capital, Algiers, demanding he step down. Mr Bensalah had pledged to hold free elections within 90 days in line with the country’s constitution, but many see the 77-year-old as too close to the former president.”
Similar to Sudan, the Algerian Army still has a stronghold on the country. But, in support of Bensalah, the Army has reportedly stated that it will support a peaceful transition after the election is held in July.
“Earlier on Wednesday, Algeria’s army chief said he expected to see members of the ruling elite in the major oil and natural gas-producing country prosecuted for corruption and that he would support a transition towards elections.
“Lieutenant General Gaid Salah’s comments were the strongest hint yet that the military would play its traditional role as kingmaker after the ailing 82-year-old Bouteflika bowed to popular pressure and quit on April 2 after 20 years in power.
“The army will meet the people’s demands,” said Salah, addressing officers and soldiers at a military base. The judiciary has recovered its prerogative and can work freely.”
Despite the Army’s promises, protesters are still weary of the interim leader and the plans for the election.
Essentially, the Algerian people began protesting against, not just former President Bouteflika, but the country’s entire ruling class in February. “Placards and online posts have been demanding an end to “Le Pouvoir”, or the establishment, meaning that all those around the former president should also go.”
An estimated 70 percent of the population in Algeria is under 30 and unemployment figures are high. This has added vim to the protester’s call for everyone associated with Bouteflika to leave office. “Protests so far have largely been peaceful, although tear gas and water cannon were used by security forces on Tuesday and Wednesday.”
As the country prepares for it’s July 4 elections, dozens of Algerian mayors have reportedly rejected the upcoming poll, while the opposition announced that it will not take part in this year’s election.
