Algeria’s president of 20 years will step down

by Eben Gourlay
edited by Andrew Hoenig

Abdelaziz Bouteflika, Algeria’ president since 1999, has decided not to stand for a fifth term, according to the BBC.

(Photo: BBC)

Following weeks of political tension and protests in Algeria, Bouteflika’s original plan to seek a fifth term changed. Before stepping down, Algeria’s president will ensure “continuity of the state’s institutions,” according to the BBC article. Protesters are demanding an entire generation of Algerian political leaders step down as well.

According to the BBC, many people of Algeria believe a group called “le pouvoir” are taking advantage of Bouteflika’s health to continue influencing power. Le pouvoir has had a dominant influence on Algeria’s government since 1962. Protests have predominantly come from young people who are looking for not just a replacement for the president, but a new system of government

Elections for a new president have been postponed. Discontent among the people will be addressed at an upcoming national conference with discussions of government reform. Despite the announcement, protests demanding immediate change continue in Algeria.