Protests have continued in Algeria after the December 12 Presidential election which installed former Prime Minister Abdelmadjid Tebboune in office.

The protests which began shortly after the then-President Abdelaziz Bouteflika announced in February that he would seek a fifth term in office have now entered into the 11th month. Protesters had demanded an overhaul of the government and a departure of Bouteflika-era officials.

Many hoped a fresh election would quell the anger of the protesters, however, the election was partially boycotted. Voter turnout was under 40 per cent as demonstrationswere held alongside the casting of ballots.

Why are Algerians Still Protesting?

At the root of their anger is widespread dissatisfaction and frustration with the ruling elite associated with the Bouteflika regime who are considered to be corrupt. They want an overhaul of the government and the removal of Bouteflika’s old allies, a group of people that includes Army Chief Gaid Salah. Further fueling the protest is the fact that all the candidates who ran in the election had connections to the regime the people are frustrated with. The new President served as Prime Minister under Bouteflika.

The continued protests do not come as a surprise to many as the announcement of an election date was greeted with protests and calls for cancellation of the poll. Since Bouteflika stepped down, Gaid Salah had risen as the authority figure in the country, as elections were organised after he called for it. The army is seen as the power broker and protesters want the military to back away from politics.

Uncertainty and Hope

On Monday, the 23rd of December, news broke that Gaid Salah died from a heart attack. Since Gaid Salah had become a target of the protests, observers believe the demise of such strongman could provide a transition period and a chance for the military to release its sway over politics.