Bowing to Massive Protests, Algeria’s Puppet President won’t Run for a 5th Term but Elections Postponed

Following protests in Algeria that drew millions into the streets, it was announced Abdelaziz Bouteflika would not run for a fifth term. However, the government announced elections would be postponed, worrying critics that his administration intends to hold on to power.

Long absent from the public eye following a stroke in 2013 and seen by many as a puppet president, Abdelaziz Bouteflika has ruled the country for two decades.

In a letter to the nation released through the state news agency APS, Mr. Bouteflika said, “There will be no fifth term.”

Many celebrated the end of Bouteflika’s reign, while others were more cautious, calling the announcement that the president would step aside just a first step. No timeline has been given for the delayed election. Critics worry the move will pave the way for a handpicked successor to be installed.

 

 

Photo: “Algeria hails election turnout” by Magharebia is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0