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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - December 14, 2019

Algerians marched through the streets of downtown Algiers on Tuesday (November 11) rejecting a presidential election scheduled for early December.

Algerians protest against presidential election

A man sought unsuccessfully to set himself on fire on Friday (July 12) as tens of thousands of Algerians rallied to push for reforms and the departure of the ruling elite.

Algerian protesters push for reforms, man tries to burn himself

Algeria`s interim President Abdelkader Bensalah called on Thursday for all parties to launch an "inclusive dialogue" to prepare for presidential elections, following the constitutional council`s scrapping of a vote set for July 4.

Bensalah, in a speech broadcast on state television, did not set a date for the new contest.

The constitutional council on Sunday called off the presidential election planned for July 4 citing a lack of candidates, prolonging a period of political transition and risking more anger from anti-government protesters.

Demonstrators are expected to return to the streets on Friday to demand Bensalah`s resignation and an end to the dominance of an elite that has ruled Algeria since it won independence from France in 1962.

Former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika ended his 20-year-long rule two months ago under pressure from protesters. But protests have continued demanding also the resignation of Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui, who was appointed by Bouteflika days before he stepped down.&nbsp;

Armed forces chief, Lieutenant-General Ahmed Gaed Salah, who has been managing the transition, has called on political parties and protesters to meet among themselves to discuss a way out of the crisis.

Algeria`s interim President Abdelkader Bensalah called on Thursday for all parties to launch an "inclusive dialogue" to prepare for presidential elections, following the constitutional council`s scrapping of a vote set for July 4.

Algeria`s interim President Abdelkader Bensalah called on Thursday for all parties to launch an "inclusive dialogue" to prepare for presidential elections, following the constitutional council`s scrapping of a vote set for July 4. Bensalah, in a speech broadcast on state television, did not set a date for the new contest. The constitutional council on Sunday called off the presidential election planned for July 4 citing a lack of candidates, prolonging a period of political transition and risking more anger from anti-government protesters. Demonstrators are expected to return to the streets on Friday to demand Bensalah`s resignation and an end to the dominance of an elite that has ruled Algeria since it won independence from France in 1962. Former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika ended his 20-year-long rule two months ago under pressure from protesters. But protests have continued demanding also the resignation of Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui, who was appointed by Bouteflika days before he stepped down. Armed forces chief, Lieutenant-General Ahmed Gaed Salah, who has been managing the transition, has called on political parties and protesters to meet among themselves to discuss a way out of the crisis.

Algeria's interim president calls for dialogue to prepare new elections

A former Algerian police chief once considered a pillar of the regime of ousted president Abdelaziz Bouteflika has been summoned for questioning about allegations of corruption, state media said Sunday.

Since Bouteflika resigned in early April after weeks of mass protests against his rule, several regime officials and businessmen who were close to him have been sacked or detained over alleged graft.

General Abdelghani Hamel, the former police chief once tipped as Bouteflika's successor before he was fired by the veteran leader in June 2018, is due to appear in court Monday with one of his sons, state radio said.

They are expected to be questioned as part of a judicial inquiry into "illegal activity, bribery, embezzlement of funds and abuse of power," according to state television.

Since Bouteflika's ouster investigators have cracked down on alleged graft, zeroing in on the activities of prominent politicians and businessmen as they try to clear away two decades of cronyism under the former president.

High-profile figures who were targeted over the past week include the North African country's richest man, Issad Rebrab, who was detained Monday on allegations of false customs declarations.

The head of the vast state oil firm Sonatrach, Abdelmoumen Ould Kaddour, was fired and replaced on the orders of interim president Abdelkader Bensalah.

Four brothers from the influential Kouninef family, close to Bouteflika's brother Said, were also arrested last Sunday over alleged non-compliance with state contracts, according to state media.

A magistrate has also summoned for questioning Finance Minister Mohamed Loukal and former prime minister Ahmed Ouyahia in connection with alleged misuse of public funds.

Late last month top Algerian businessman and Bouteflika backer Ali Haddad was arrested as he tried to cross the border into Tunisia with two passports and undeclared currency.

A former Algerian police chief once considered a pillar of the regime of ousted president Abdelaziz Bouteflika has been summoned for questioning about allegations of corruption, state media said Sunday.

A former Algerian police chief once considered a pillar of the regime of ousted president Abdelaziz Bouteflika has been summoned for questioning about allegations of corruption, state media said Sunday. Since Bouteflika resigned in early April after weeks of mass protests against his rule, several regime officials and businessmen who were close to him have been sacked or detained over alleged graft. General Abdelghani Hamel, the former police chief once tipped as Bouteflika's successor before he was fired by the veteran leader in June 2018, is due to appear in court Monday with one of his sons, state radio said. They are expected to be questioned as part of a judicial inquiry into "illegal activity, bribery, embezzlement of funds and abuse of power," according to state television. Since Bouteflika's ouster investigators have cracked down on alleged graft, zeroing in on the activities of prominent politicians and businessmen as they try to clear away two decades of cronyism under the former president. High-profile figures who were targeted over the past week include the North African country's richest man, Issad Rebrab, who was detained Monday on allegations of false customs declarations. The head of the vast state oil firm Sonatrach, Abdelmoumen Ould Kaddour, was fired and replaced on the orders of interim president Abdelkader Bensalah. Four brothers from the influential Kouninef family, close to Bouteflika's brother Said, were also arrested last Sunday over alleged non-compliance with state contracts, according to state media. A magistrate has also summoned for questioning Finance Minister Mohamed Loukal and former prime minister Ahmed Ouyahia in connection with alleged misuse of public funds. Late last month top Algerian businessman and Bouteflika backer Ali Haddad was arrested as he tried to cross the border into Tunisia with two passports and undeclared currency.

Algeria's ex-police chief to face graft probe

Thousands of protesters demanding the departure of Algeria`s ruling elite rallied in Algiers for a tenth Friday.

President Abdelaziz <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-president-abdelaziz-bouteflika-submits-resignation-with-immediate-effect-207621">Bouteflika stepped down after 20 years</a> in power this month, bowing to pressure from the army and weeks of demonstrations mainly by young people seeking change.

"The system must go" and "We are fed up with you," read banners held up by protesters in central Algiers.

The protests, which began on February&nbsp;22 and have been largely peaceful, have continued as many want the removal of an elite that has governed Algeria since independence from France in 1962 and the prosecution of people they see as corrupt.

Bouteflika has been replaced by Abdelkader Bensalah, head of the upper house of parliament, as interim president for 90 days until a presidential election on July 4.

Algeria’s wealthiest businessman and four other billionaires close to Bouteflika were arrested this week as part of an anti-graft investigation, state media said.

Algeria’s army chief Lieutenant-General Ahmed Gaed Salah has said he expected members of the ruling elite to be prosecuted for corruption.

Salah intervened when Bouteflika sought to extend his fourth term, declaring him unfit for office in a bid to avoid prolonged turmoil.

Thousands of protesters demanding the departure of Algeria`s ruling elite rallied in Algiers for a tenth Friday. President Abdelaziz Bouteflika stepped down after 20 years in power this month, bowing to pressure from the army and weeks of demonstrations mainly by young people seeking change.

Thousands of protesters demanding the departure of Algeria`s ruling elite rallied in Algiers for a tenth Friday. President Abdelaziz Bouteflika stepped down after 20 years in power this month, bowing to pressure from the army and weeks of demonstrations mainly by young people seeking change. "The system must go" and "We are fed up with you," read banners held up by protesters in central Algiers. The protests, which began on February 22 and have been largely peaceful, have continued as many want the removal of an elite that has governed Algeria since independence from France in 1962 and the prosecution of people they see as corrupt. Bouteflika has been replaced by Abdelkader Bensalah, head of the upper house of parliament, as interim president for 90 days until a presidential election on July 4. Algeria’s wealthiest businessman and four other billionaires close to Bouteflika were arrested this week as part of an anti-graft investigation, state media said. Algeria’s army chief Lieutenant-General Ahmed Gaed Salah has said he expected members of the ruling elite to be prosecuted for corruption. Salah intervened when Bouteflika sought to extend his fourth term, declaring him unfit for office in a bid to avoid prolonged turmoil.

Thousands protest against Algeria's ruling elite

Hundreds of thousands of protesters rallied in Algiers for an eighth successive Friday to demand the departure of the ruling elite, witnesses said, as Algeria prepares for a presidential election in July.

President Abdelaziz Bouteflika stepped down from 20 years in power 10 days ago, bowing to pressure from the army and weeks of demonstrations mainly by young people seeking change in the North African country.

But protests have continued as many want the removal of an elite that has governed Algeria since independence from France in 1962 and the prosecution of what they see as corrupt figures.

Bouteflika has been replaced by Abdelkader Bensalah, head of the upper house of parliament, as interim president for 90 days until a presidential election on July 4.

"No to Bensalah," the protesters chanted, marching peacefully in the centre of Algiers where mass protests broke out on Feb 22.

Reuters correspondents at the scene estimated the crowd size at hundreds of thousands of people as on previous Fridays, although there was no official count.

"We want the prosecution of all corrupt people" and "no to the gang", banners held up by people said. Many protesters waved Algeria's white, green and red crescent moon flag.

One of them, who gave his name as Nawal, told Reuters: "We came out today to say that Bensalah's position is unconstitutional."

"We do not deserve military rule. We deserve a democratic and free Algeria."

52-year-old grocer Ali Badji, holding his son on his shoulders, said: "We are still sticking to our demands. We want a radical change."

State television said similar marches took places in most cities.

On Wednesday, Algeria's army chief, Lieutenant-General Ahmed Gaed Salah, said he expected to see members of the ruling elite close to Bouteflika, which he called "gang", prosecuted for corruption and said he would support a transition toward elections.

More than one in four people under the age of 30, some 70 per cent of the population, are unemployed - one of the central grievances of protesters who want the economy liberalized and diversified to reduce its reliance on its oil and gas production.

The army monitored the unrest from the sidelines. Then Salah intervened, declaring Bouteflika - rarely seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013 - unfit to rule.

Hundreds of thousands of protesters rallied in Algiers for an eighth successive Friday to demand the departure of the ruling elite, witnesses said, as Algeria prepares for a presidential election in July.

Hundreds of thousands of protesters rallied in Algiers for an eighth successive Friday to demand the departure of the ruling elite, witnesses said, as Algeria prepares for a presidential election in July. President Abdelaziz Bouteflika stepped down from 20 years in power 10 days ago, bowing to pressure from the army and weeks of demonstrations mainly by young people seeking change in the North African country. But protests have continued as many want the removal of an elite that has governed Algeria since independence from France in 1962 and the prosecution of what they see as corrupt figures. Bouteflika has been replaced by Abdelkader Bensalah, head of the upper house of parliament, as interim president for 90 days until a presidential election on July 4. "No to Bensalah," the protesters chanted, marching peacefully in the centre of Algiers where mass protests broke out on Feb 22. Reuters correspondents at the scene estimated the crowd size at hundreds of thousands of people as on previous Fridays, although there was no official count. "We want the prosecution of all corrupt people" and "no to the gang", banners held up by people said. Many protesters waved Algeria's white, green and red crescent moon flag. One of them, who gave his name as Nawal, told Reuters: "We came out today to say that Bensalah's position is unconstitutional." "We do not deserve military rule. We deserve a democratic and free Algeria." 52-year-old grocer Ali Badji, holding his son on his shoulders, said: "We are still sticking to our demands. We want a radical change." State television said similar marches took places in most cities. On Wednesday, Algeria's army chief, Lieutenant-General Ahmed Gaed Salah, said he expected to see members of the ruling elite close to Bouteflika, which he called "gang", prosecuted for corruption and said he would support a transition toward elections. More than one in four people under the age of 30, some 70 per cent of the population, are unemployed - one of the central grievances of protesters who want the economy liberalized and diversified to reduce its reliance on its oil and gas production. The army monitored the unrest from the sidelines. Then Salah intervened, declaring Bouteflika - rarely seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013 - unfit to rule.

With Bouteflika gone, hundreds of thousands protest in Algeria to demand more change

Algeria's parliament appointed its upper house chairman Abdelkader Bensalah as interim president on Tuesday (April 9) following the resignation of ailing Abdelaziz Bouteflika after weeks of mass demonstrations against his rule.

Police blast demonstators with water cannon in Algeria

Timeline of events rocking Algeria

Protest-hit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algerias-bouteflika-announces-new-government-207088">Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika</a> resigned on Tuesday, state media reported. He submitted his resignation with immediate effect.

Bouteflika "officially advised the Constitutional Council of the end of his term of office as President of the Republic", state television reported.

"I have the honour to formally notify you of my decision to terminate my term of office as President of the Republic from today, Tuesday," state news agency APS quoted his resignation letter as saying.

"This decision which I take in my soul and conscience is destined to contribute to the appeasement of the hearts and minds of my compatriots, to allow them to take Algeria towards a better future to which they legitimately aspire," it added.

The resignation comes shortly after the military demanded impeachment proceedings be launched against Bouteflika.

The country celebrated the leader's step down by cheering and waving the national flag at Grand Post square, the epicentre of the protest against his rule in downtown Algiers.

Now the speaker of Algeria's upper house of parliament Abdelkader Bensalah would act as an interim leader for up to 90 days during which a presidential election must be organised.

(With inputs from AFP)

Protest-hit Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned on Tuesday, state media reported. He submitted his resignation with immediate effect. Bouteflika "officially advised the Constitutional Council of the end of his term of office as President of the Republic", state television reported.

Protest-hit Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned on Tuesday, state media reported. He submitted his resignation with immediate effect. Bouteflika "officially advised the Constitutional Council of the end of his term of office as President of the Republic", state television reported. "I have the honour to formally notify you of my decision to terminate my term of office as President of the Republic from today, Tuesday," state news agency APS quoted his resignation letter as saying. "This decision which I take in my soul and conscience is destined to contribute to the appeasement of the hearts and minds of my compatriots, to allow them to take Algeria towards a better future to which they legitimately aspire," it added. The resignation comes shortly after the military demanded impeachment proceedings be launched against Bouteflika. The country celebrated the leader's step down by cheering and waving the national flag at Grand Post square, the epicentre of the protest against his rule in downtown Algiers. Now the speaker of Algeria's upper house of parliament Abdelkader Bensalah would act as an interim leader for up to 90 days during which a presidential election must be organised. (With inputs from AFP)

Algeria President Bouteflika submits resignation with immediate effect

Protest-hit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algerias-bouteflika-announces-new-government-207088">Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika</a> will resign before his mandate expires on April 28.

Bouteflika will resign "before April 28, 2019", after "important decisions" are taken, the presidency said in a statement on Monday, without elaborating.&nbsp;

The news comes after Bouteflika on Sunday named a new government which will be headed by Noureddine Bedoui.

Local state media reported that that armed forces chief Ahmed Gaid Salah, who has called for Bouteflika to step down, remained as deputy defence minister.

Ailing Bouteflika, who has rarely been seen in public since a 2013 stroke, has come under mounting pressure to quit power since his decision to seek a fifth term sparked huge demonstrations.

The 82-year-old said last month that he would not run for president and postponed April elections. Since then, Algeria has been rocked by many protests.

Once the president resigns, then the speaker of Algeria's upper house of parliament Abdelkader Bensalah would act as an interim leader for up to 90 days during which a presidential election must be organised.

(With inputs from AFP)

Protest-hit Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika will resign before his mandate expires on April 28. Bouteflika will resign "before April 28, 2019", after "important decisions" are taken, the presidency said in a statement on Monday, without elaborating.

Protest-hit Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika will resign before his mandate expires on April 28. Bouteflika will resign "before April 28, 2019", after "important decisions" are taken, the presidency said in a statement on Monday, without elaborating. The news comes after Bouteflika on Sunday named a new government which will be headed by Noureddine Bedoui. Local state media reported that that armed forces chief Ahmed Gaid Salah, who has called for Bouteflika to step down, remained as deputy defence minister. Ailing Bouteflika, who has rarely been seen in public since a 2013 stroke, has come under mounting pressure to quit power since his decision to seek a fifth term sparked huge demonstrations. The 82-year-old said last month that he would not run for president and postponed April elections. Since then, Algeria has been rocked by many protests. Once the president resigns, then the speaker of Algeria's upper house of parliament Abdelkader Bensalah would act as an interim leader for up to 90 days during which a presidential election must be organised. (With inputs from AFP)

Algeria's President Abdelaziz Bouteflika to resign 'before mandate ends'

Protest-hit Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika on Sunday named a new government headed by recently appointed Noureddine Bedoui, a statement from the presidency said.&nbsp;

State television reported that armed forces chief Ahmed Gaid Salah, who has called for Bouteflika to step down, remained as deputy defence minister.

Veteran politician Ramtane Lamamra, who was appointed deputy prime minister and foreign minister on March 11, was not named in the new administration.

Ailing Bouteflika, who has rarely been seen in public since a 2013 stroke, has come under mounting pressure to quit power since his decision to seek a fifth term sparked huge demonstrations.

Bouteflika said earlier this month he would pull out of the race and postponed April elections, in moves that angered Algerians who see it as a ploy to extend his two decades in power.

Faced with persistent public anger, a succession of veteran Bouteflika loyalists have deserted the president in recent days.

On Tuesday, chief of staff Gaid Salah, who was appointed in 2004, called for him to step down or be declared medically unfit.

The chief of staff cited Article 102 of the constitution, under which a president can be removed if found unfit to rule.

Long a faithful Bouteflika supporter, Gaid Salah said on television it was "imperative" to find a way out of the crisis "which respond to the legitimate demands" of the people in line with the constitution.

Despite the calls, huge crowds thronged the streets of Algeria's capital on Friday for a sixth successive week, saying the moves by his key allies to abandon Bouteflika were not enough.&nbsp;

Protest-hit Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika on Sunday named a new government headed by recently appointed Noureddine Bedoui, a statement from the presidency said.

Protest-hit Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika on Sunday named a new government headed by recently appointed Noureddine Bedoui, a statement from the presidency said. State television reported that armed forces chief Ahmed Gaid Salah, who has called for Bouteflika to step down, remained as deputy defence minister. Veteran politician Ramtane Lamamra, who was appointed deputy prime minister and foreign minister on March 11, was not named in the new administration. Ailing Bouteflika, who has rarely been seen in public since a 2013 stroke, has come under mounting pressure to quit power since his decision to seek a fifth term sparked huge demonstrations. Bouteflika said earlier this month he would pull out of the race and postponed April elections, in moves that angered Algerians who see it as a ploy to extend his two decades in power. Faced with persistent public anger, a succession of veteran Bouteflika loyalists have deserted the president in recent days. On Tuesday, chief of staff Gaid Salah, who was appointed in 2004, called for him to step down or be declared medically unfit. The chief of staff cited Article 102 of the constitution, under which a president can be removed if found unfit to rule. Long a faithful Bouteflika supporter, Gaid Salah said on television it was "imperative" to find a way out of the crisis "which respond to the legitimate demands" of the people in line with the constitution. Despite the calls, huge crowds thronged the streets of Algeria's capital on Friday for a sixth successive week, saying the moves by his key allies to abandon Bouteflika were not enough.

Algeria's Bouteflika announces new government

Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika might resign this week, the private Ennahar and El Bilad TV channels said on Sunday, after mass protests and pressure from the army demanding he end his 20-year rule.

The reports come after the army chief of staff, Lieutenant General Ahmed Gaed Salah, renewed a call on Saturday for the Constitutional Council to declare the ailing 82-year-old Bouteflika unfit to rule.

Seeking to defuse the demonstrations, Bouteflika said on March 11 he was dropping plans for a fifth term. But he stopped short of stepping down immediately, to wait for a national conference on political change.

That further enraged protesters, prompting Salah to step in by proposing last week to ask the constitutional council to see whether he is still fit for office.

Bouteflika, who has rarely been in public since suffering a stroke in 2013, might announce his resignation on Tuesday, Ennahar TV said, citing political sources. El Bilad TV, quoting unnamed sources, said he would quit this week.

State media did not report similar reports, and there was no immediate comment from the presidency.

Ennahar said Bouteflika was preparing his resignation in accordance with article 102 of the constitution, which allows him to quit or face the verdict of the constitutional council whether he is still fit for office.

Late on Sunday, hundreds took to the streets in the capital, Algiers, to demand Bouteflika go, according to residents and pictures posted on social media.

The reports came hours after Bouteflika named a caretaker Cabinet. Political sources said that might be a signal that Bouteflika could resign, as a caretaker president cannot name Cabinets.

Incumbent Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui will head the administration, state news agency APS said, listing 27 ministers.

Central bank Governor Mohamed Loukal was named as finance minister, while the former head of the state power and gas utility Mohamed Arkab will be energy minister, APS said.

Sabri Boukadoum, a former envoy to the United Nations, becomes foreign minister and replaces Ramtane Lamamra, who spent less than a month in the role.

Salah kept his position as deputy defence minister in the reshuffle, according to state media. Bouteflika kept his title as defence minister.

Bouteflika also named the communications minister, Hassane Rabhi, as government spokesman, a rarely filled post in what critics say has been a secretive administration.

Change?

Demonstrators have rejected military intervention in civilian matters and want to dismantle the entire ruling elite, which includes veterans from the war of independence against France, army officers, the ruling party and business tycoons.

Tens of thousands have taken to the streets of Algiers for more than a month, complaining of corruption, nepotism and economic mismanagement they say has tarnished Bouteflika's rule.

But two opposition leaders have supported the army initiative.

"The merit of this approach is that it responds to a pressing popular demand," Ali Benflis, a former head of the ruling FLN party, said in a party statement. "We are facing a political, constitutional and institutional crisis."

Abderazak Makri, head of an Islamist party, said he was against anything that threatened the stability and unity of the country or undermined the military.

Several close allies, including some members of the ruling FLN and union leaders, have abandoned Bouteflika.

The secretary-general of the United Nations said on Sunday he welcomed efforts towards a peaceful and democratic transition in Algeria.

Addressing an Arab League summit in Tunis, Antonio Guterres said any steps should be made in a way "that addresses the concerns of the Algerian people in a timely way".

Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika might resign this week, the private Ennahar and El Bilad TV channels said on Sunday, after mass protests and pressure from the army demanding he end his 20-year rule.

Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika might resign this week, the private Ennahar and El Bilad TV channels said on Sunday, after mass protests and pressure from the army demanding he end his 20-year rule. The reports come after the army chief of staff, Lieutenant General Ahmed Gaed Salah, renewed a call on Saturday for the Constitutional Council to declare the ailing 82-year-old Bouteflika unfit to rule. Seeking to defuse the demonstrations, Bouteflika said on March 11 he was dropping plans for a fifth term. But he stopped short of stepping down immediately, to wait for a national conference on political change. That further enraged protesters, prompting Salah to step in by proposing last week to ask the constitutional council to see whether he is still fit for office. Bouteflika, who has rarely been in public since suffering a stroke in 2013, might announce his resignation on Tuesday, Ennahar TV said, citing political sources. El Bilad TV, quoting unnamed sources, said he would quit this week. State media did not report similar reports, and there was no immediate comment from the presidency. Ennahar said Bouteflika was preparing his resignation in accordance with article 102 of the constitution, which allows him to quit or face the verdict of the constitutional council whether he is still fit for office. Late on Sunday, hundreds took to the streets in the capital, Algiers, to demand Bouteflika go, according to residents and pictures posted on social media. The reports came hours after Bouteflika named a caretaker Cabinet. Political sources said that might be a signal that Bouteflika could resign, as a caretaker president cannot name Cabinets. Incumbent Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui will head the administration, state news agency APS said, listing 27 ministers. Central bank Governor Mohamed Loukal was named as finance minister, while the former head of the state power and gas utility Mohamed Arkab will be energy minister, APS said. Sabri Boukadoum, a former envoy to the United Nations, becomes foreign minister and replaces Ramtane Lamamra, who spent less than a month in the role. Salah kept his position as deputy defence minister in the reshuffle, according to state media. Bouteflika kept his title as defence minister. Bouteflika also named the communications minister, Hassane Rabhi, as government spokesman, a rarely filled post in what critics say has been a secretive administration. Change? Demonstrators have rejected military intervention in civilian matters and want to dismantle the entire ruling elite, which includes veterans from the war of independence against France, army officers, the ruling party and business tycoons. Tens of thousands have taken to the streets of Algiers for more than a month, complaining of corruption, nepotism and economic mismanagement they say has tarnished Bouteflika's rule. But two opposition leaders have supported the army initiative. "The merit of this approach is that it responds to a pressing popular demand," Ali Benflis, a former head of the ruling FLN party, said in a party statement. "We are facing a political, constitutional and institutional crisis." Abderazak Makri, head of an Islamist party, said he was against anything that threatened the stability and unity of the country or undermined the military. Several close allies, including some members of the ruling FLN and union leaders, have abandoned Bouteflika. The secretary-general of the United Nations said on Sunday he welcomed efforts towards a peaceful and democratic transition in Algeria. Addressing an Arab League summit in Tunis, Antonio Guterres said any steps should be made in a way "that addresses the concerns of the Algerian people in a timely way".

Algeria's president might resign this week: Report

Algerian amry chief asks for Presidency to be vacated

Tens of thousands protested across Algeria on Friday in the biggest rallies yet against ailing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term, despite the defiant leader's warning of the risk of "chaos".

A march in the capital Algiers was slowed to a near-crawl by the huge numbers taking part, swelled by women marking International Women's Day and chanting "No fifth term -- hey, Bouteflika!"

Waving Algeria's green-white-and-red flags, men and women converged on the city's landmark Grand Post Office square after weekly prayers.

"The people are here, from all social classes, from the youngest to the eldest, everyone is saying 'no to a fifth term, please, leave, you won't even be judged'," said Kamel, a 37-year-old protester in the capital.

The police fired tear gas and stun grenades to disperse those who tried to force their way through a police cordon that was blocking access to a road leading towards the presidency, an AFP journalist said.&nbsp;

While demonstrators dispersed calmly as darkness fell, small groups of young people clashed with the police. &nbsp;

The unrest left 112 members of the security forces injured, according to police, who said they had arrested 195 people suspected of "vandalism". &nbsp;&nbsp;

The overall atmosphere through the day was calm and festive, and numerous people attended with their children.

Huge crowds -- again far surpassing those seen the previous Friday -- also protested in the second and third cities of Oran and Constantine, local journalists on the ground told AFP.

A journalist in Oran said the whole city "is out (on the streets)... this has never been seen before".

Major demonstrations were reported in other cities across the country by security sources, Algerian media and social networks.

'Insidious' infiltration

In a message released on Thursday night, Bouteflika -- who uses a wheelchair and has rarely been seen in public since a 2013 stroke -- warned that troublemakers may try to infiltrate the demonstrations.

"Many of our fellow citizens" have demonstrated across the North African country "to peacefully express their views", he said.&nbsp;

"However, we must call for vigilance and caution in case this peaceful expression is infiltrated by some insidious party... which could cause chaos," he said, without mention of the demands that he abandon his bid to seek re-election on April 18.

Bouteflika flagged the risk of a return to the "national tragedy" of Algeria's decade-long civil war in the 1990s and of the "crises and tragedies caused by terrorism" in neighbouring countries.

The head of state has been in Switzerland since February 24 for what the presidency describes as "routine medical tests", and a date for his return home has not yet been announced.

Swiss police said Rachid Nekkaz -- a businessman and political activist opposed to Bouteflika -- was arrested on Friday outside the Geneva hospital where the president is being treated.

He will be held overnight and appear before a prosecutor on Saturday, police spokesman Jean-Philippe Brandt told AFP.

Nekkaz fell foul of Algerian electoral laws because he has previously held French nationality and stood aside for a cousin of the same name to run on his behalf.&nbsp;

Algeria has largely avoided the conflicts unleashed by the Arab Spring uprisings that brought down rulers in neighbouring Tunisia and Libya.

But discontent, particularly among the young, turned to anger after the veteran leader announced on February 10 that he would seek another term.

Calls had circulated widely on social media under the hashtag "March 8 Movement" for massive but peaceful demonstrations in the capital and cities across the North African state on Friday.

'Day of celebration'

"I will not throw a single stone!" and "No windows will be smashed," were among "18 commandments" sent out to participants by poet and writer Lazhari Labter, as well as instructions to clean up streets after the protests.

He also called for demonstrators to turn the event into "a day of celebration" and one of "love, faith, Algerian flags and roses".

Michael Ayari, an analyst for the International Crisis Group, told AFP that there is no "anti-police (or) anti-army dimension" to the protests, unlike the beginning of the Arab Spring in Tunisia in 2011.&nbsp;

He said "the army could try to steer a possible transition process", citing retired general Ali Ghediri -- a presidential candidate -- as a potential consensus choice.

Despite a ban dating back to 2001, demonstrations have been staged almost daily in Algiers since a massive rally two weeks ago.

Around 1,000 lawyers took to the streets of Algiers on Thursday, arguing that the president's ill health should disqualify him from the race.

They breached police cordons to march on the Constitutional Council, the body tasked with approving the candidacy of those registered to contest the poll.

Tens of thousands protested across Algeria on Friday in the biggest rallies yet against ailing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term, despite the defiant leader's warning of the risk of "chaos".

Tens of thousands protested across Algeria on Friday in the biggest rallies yet against ailing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term, despite the defiant leader's warning of the risk of "chaos". A march in the capital Algiers was slowed to a near-crawl by the huge numbers taking part, swelled by women marking International Women's Day and chanting "No fifth term -- hey, Bouteflika!" Waving Algeria's green-white-and-red flags, men and women converged on the city's landmark Grand Post Office square after weekly prayers. "The people are here, from all social classes, from the youngest to the eldest, everyone is saying 'no to a fifth term, please, leave, you won't even be judged'," said Kamel, a 37-year-old protester in the capital. The police fired tear gas and stun grenades to disperse those who tried to force their way through a police cordon that was blocking access to a road leading towards the presidency, an AFP journalist said. While demonstrators dispersed calmly as darkness fell, small groups of young people clashed with the police. The unrest left 112 members of the security forces injured, according to police, who said they had arrested 195 people suspected of "vandalism". The overall atmosphere through the day was calm and festive, and numerous people attended with their children. Huge crowds -- again far surpassing those seen the previous Friday -- also protested in the second and third cities of Oran and Constantine, local journalists on the ground told AFP. A journalist in Oran said the whole city "is out (on the streets)... this has never been seen before". Major demonstrations were reported in other cities across the country by security sources, Algerian media and social networks. 'Insidious' infiltration In a message released on Thursday night, Bouteflika -- who uses a wheelchair and has rarely been seen in public since a 2013 stroke -- warned that troublemakers may try to infiltrate the demonstrations. "Many of our fellow citizens" have demonstrated across the North African country "to peacefully express their views", he said. "However, we must call for vigilance and caution in case this peaceful expression is infiltrated by some insidious party... which could cause chaos," he said, without mention of the demands that he abandon his bid to seek re-election on April 18. Bouteflika flagged the risk of a return to the "national tragedy" of Algeria's decade-long civil war in the 1990s and of the "crises and tragedies caused by terrorism" in neighbouring countries. The head of state has been in Switzerland since February 24 for what the presidency describes as "routine medical tests", and a date for his return home has not yet been announced. Swiss police said Rachid Nekkaz -- a businessman and political activist opposed to Bouteflika -- was arrested on Friday outside the Geneva hospital where the president is being treated. He will be held overnight and appear before a prosecutor on Saturday, police spokesman Jean-Philippe Brandt told AFP. Nekkaz fell foul of Algerian electoral laws because he has previously held French nationality and stood aside for a cousin of the same name to run on his behalf. Algeria has largely avoided the conflicts unleashed by the Arab Spring uprisings that brought down rulers in neighbouring Tunisia and Libya. But discontent, particularly among the young, turned to anger after the veteran leader announced on February 10 that he would seek another term. Calls had circulated widely on social media under the hashtag "March 8 Movement" for massive but peaceful demonstrations in the capital and cities across the North African state on Friday. 'Day of celebration' "I will not throw a single stone!" and "No windows will be smashed," were among "18 commandments" sent out to participants by poet and writer Lazhari Labter, as well as instructions to clean up streets after the protests. He also called for demonstrators to turn the event into "a day of celebration" and one of "love, faith, Algerian flags and roses". Michael Ayari, an analyst for the International Crisis Group, told AFP that there is no "anti-police (or) anti-army dimension" to the protests, unlike the beginning of the Arab Spring in Tunisia in 2011. He said "the army could try to steer a possible transition process", citing retired general Ali Ghediri -- a presidential candidate -- as a potential consensus choice. Despite a ban dating back to 2001, demonstrations have been staged almost daily in Algiers since a massive rally two weeks ago. Around 1,000 lawyers took to the streets of Algiers on Thursday, arguing that the president's ill health should disqualify him from the race. They breached police cordons to march on the Constitutional Council, the body tasked with approving the candidacy of those registered to contest the poll.

Tens of thousands hit streets in Algeria for anti-Bouteflika protest

Security forces arrested 41 people during angry protests that rocked Algeria's capital against ailing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika seeking a fifth term, authorities said Saturday.

Police fired teargas on Friday afternoon to block a protest march on the presidential palace, prompting demonstrators to respond with stone-throwing.

The Directorate General for National Security (DGSN), said Saturday it had detained 41 people over "public disorder, vandalism, damage to property, violence and assault".

Despite the arrests, protests around the country were largely tolerated by authorities, even in the capital, where demonstrations have been strictly banned since 2001.

The police did not give an estimate of the number of protesters, but a security official speaking on condition of anonymity told AFP that around 20,000 people had demonstrated nationwide, around a quarter of them in Algiers.&nbsp;

The official said 38 of the arrests were in the capital, and that no security personnel had been wounded.

Activists had used social media to call for nationwide protests against Bouteflika on Friday after weekly Muslim prayers.

The 81-year-old, who uses a wheelchair and has rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013, announced on February 10 that he will run for another term in an April presidential election.

Security forces arrested 41 people during angry protests that rocked Algeria's capital against ailing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika seeking a fifth term, authorities said Saturday.

Security forces arrested 41 people during angry protests that rocked Algeria's capital against ailing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika seeking a fifth term, authorities said Saturday. Police fired teargas on Friday afternoon to block a protest march on the presidential palace, prompting demonstrators to respond with stone-throwing. The Directorate General for National Security (DGSN), said Saturday it had detained 41 people over "public disorder, vandalism, damage to property, violence and assault". Despite the arrests, protests around the country were largely tolerated by authorities, even in the capital, where demonstrations have been strictly banned since 2001. The police did not give an estimate of the number of protesters, but a security official speaking on condition of anonymity told AFP that around 20,000 people had demonstrated nationwide, around a quarter of them in Algiers. The official said 38 of the arrests were in the capital, and that no security personnel had been wounded. Activists had used social media to call for nationwide protests against Bouteflika on Friday after weekly Muslim prayers. The 81-year-old, who uses a wheelchair and has rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013, announced on February 10 that he will run for another term in an April presidential election.

Dozens arrested in protests against fifth term for Algeria president

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