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Bouteflika has been replaced by Abdelkader Bensalah, head of the upper house of parliament, as interim president for 90 days until a presidential election on July 4.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 Bouteflika has been replaced by Abdelkader Bensalah, head of the upper house of parliament, as interim president for 90 days until a presidential election on July 4.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

Thousands of Algerian students marched Tuesday through the capital calling for the overthrow of the "system" and trials for members of ousted president Abdelaziz Bouteflika's inner circle.

The rallies came as state media reported that Algeria's richest man has been detained in jail after his arrest as part of a corruption probe and Sunday's arrest of four other business tycoons. Some have close links to Bouteflika's entourage.

Students chanting "out with the government" gathered outside the iconic post office in the heart of Algiers as they have every week since the Bouteflika stepped down on April 2 in the face of<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/with-bouteflika-gone-hundreds-of-thousands-protest-in-algeria-to-demand-more-change-209938&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjSiaeSuubhAhW26XMBHfshBdIQFggNMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YBmp6bTNMU9NeOjBVoCNn"> mass protests against his 20-year rule.</a>

The police dialled down the security presence at the site after deploying en masse last Tuesday to prevent protesters from reaching what has become the emblematic point of rallies since anti-government demonstrations first erupted in February.&nbsp;

"Either it's us, or it's you. Out with the government!" chanted students, many of them draped in Algeria's national flag.&nbsp;

Architecture and civil engineering students wearing white and yellow construction helmets held banners aloft reading "Let's build a new Algeria".&nbsp;

Algerians are demanding a complete overhaul of the political system in the North African country, including the ouster of an interim government set up in the wake of Bouteflika's fall.

They are demanding that regime stalwarts be excluded from any political transition in the country, where presidential elections are due to take place on July 4 according to acting president Abdelkader Bensalah.

"We demand the departure of the entire gang that inherited Bouteflika's reign, headed by Bensalah and (Prime Minister) Noureddine Bedoui," said Hamza, a third-year civil engineering student at the University of Blida south of the capital.&nbsp;

"We want a new system that is committed to fighting the corruption that has plagued the country," said Hamid, a finance student in Algiers.&nbsp;

Issad Rebrab, Algeria's richest man and chief executive of the country's biggest privately-owned conglomerate Cevital, was placed in detention overnight, the APS news agency said.

Late Sunday four brothers from the powerful Kouninef family with links to Said Bouteflika, the younger brother and former advisor of the president, were arrested, state television reported.&nbsp;

The Kouninef family is hugely influential and the four brothers -- Abdelkader, Reda, Karim and Tarek -- have dealings in everything from agribusiness to civil engineering.

Business tycoon Rebrab, however, said last month he backed the protest movement but he has had tense relations with the Algerian authorities, which he accuses of blocking his investments in the country.

Thousands of Algerian students marched Tuesday through the capital calling for the overthrow of the "system" and trials for members of ousted president Abdelaziz Bouteflika's inner circle.

Thousands of Algerian students marched Tuesday through the capital calling for the overthrow of the "system" and trials for members of ousted president Abdelaziz Bouteflika's inner circle. The rallies came as state media reported that Algeria's richest man has been detained in jail after his arrest as part of a corruption probe and Sunday's arrest of four other business tycoons. Some have close links to Bouteflika's entourage. Students chanting "out with the government" gathered outside the iconic post office in the heart of Algiers as they have every week since the Bouteflika stepped down on April 2 in the face of mass protests against his 20-year rule. The police dialled down the security presence at the site after deploying en masse last Tuesday to prevent protesters from reaching what has become the emblematic point of rallies since anti-government demonstrations first erupted in February. "Either it's us, or it's you. Out with the government!" chanted students, many of them draped in Algeria's national flag. Architecture and civil engineering students wearing white and yellow construction helmets held banners aloft reading "Let's build a new Algeria". Algerians are demanding a complete overhaul of the political system in the North African country, including the ouster of an interim government set up in the wake of Bouteflika's fall. They are demanding that regime stalwarts be excluded from any political transition in the country, where presidential elections are due to take place on July 4 according to acting president Abdelkader Bensalah. "We demand the departure of the entire gang that inherited Bouteflika's reign, headed by Bensalah and (Prime Minister) Noureddine Bedoui," said Hamza, a third-year civil engineering student at the University of Blida south of the capital. "We want a new system that is committed to fighting the corruption that has plagued the country," said Hamid, a finance student in Algiers. Issad Rebrab, Algeria's richest man and chief executive of the country's biggest privately-owned conglomerate Cevital, was placed in detention overnight, the APS news agency said. Late Sunday four brothers from the powerful Kouninef family with links to Said Bouteflika, the younger brother and former advisor of the president, were arrested, state television reported. The Kouninef family is hugely influential and the four brothers -- Abdelkader, Reda, Karim and Tarek -- have dealings in everything from agribusiness to civil engineering. Business tycoon Rebrab, however, said last month he backed the protest movement but he has had tense relations with the Algerian authorities, which he accuses of blocking his investments in the country.

Thousands of Algerian students protest, calling for overthrow of the 'system'

Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators returned to Algeria's streets on Friday (April 19) to press demands for sweeping democratic change well beyond former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's resignation, witnesses said.

Hundreds of thousands back on Algeria's streets, demanding radical reform

Protesters in central <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/with-bouteflika-gone-hundreds-of-thousands-protest-in-algeria-to-demand-more-change-209938&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjtmqzyndzhAhUQ7HMBHSYDA5YQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1xWa9CPN3PZThOaJiOthlx">Algiers </a>on Friday staged their ninth weekly mass rally, galvanised by the departure of longtime president Abdelaziz Bouteflika but vowing to keep up their demands for sweeping reforms.&nbsp;

Algerians first hit the streets in huge numbers on February 22 after the octogenarian leader's announcement that he would stand for a fifth term in presidential elections that had been scheduled for Thursday.

But his departure early this month spurred demonstrators to seek further changes, notably the resignation of three senior Bouteflika allies.

Activists chalked up a second victory Tuesday as one of the three, constitutional council chief Tayeb Belaiz, followed Bouteflika to the exit.

But student Lyes Adimi, 24, said more change was needed.

"Just because <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-president-abdelaziz-bouteflika-submits-resignation-with-immediate-effect-207621&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjtmqzyndzhAhUQ7HMBHSYDA5YQFggNMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0DpMpPMpIPPpFO8QyXdu_Y">Belaiz </a>has resigned that doesn't mean it's over," she said. "What has the constitutional council ever done apart from validating the fraud of the system it belongs to?"

Protesters are demanding the resignation of the two remaining members of a group dubbed the "3B" -- interim leader Abdelkader Bensalah and Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui -- saying regime stalwarts should be entirely excluded from any political transition.

Belaiz's replacement, little-known senior judge and former prosecutor Kamel Feniche, is also seen as a regime loyalist.

On Friday, hundreds rallied outside the capital's iconic main Post Office building, chanting: "The people want them all to leave!" and "Barakat (Enough of) this system!"

Despite Bensalah calling a presidential election on July 4, Algerian demonstrations are demanding a broader overhaul of the political system.

The army "is convinced that the crisis can be managed through appeasement", said Geneva-based political scientist Hasni Abidi.

He said its strategy was one of "gradually minimising the scope of concessions".

But army chief Ahmed Gaid Salah hinted this week that the military may soften its position, saying: "All options remain open... in order to find a solution to the crisis as soon as possible."

He also vowed that the Algerian army would not turn its weapons on its people, but would make sure that "no drop of Algerian blood is spilled".

Police forces, accused in past weeks of trying to quell the protest movement amid teargas-soaked clashes with demonstrators, were keeping a low profile Friday. 
&nbsp;

Protesters in central Algiers on Friday staged their ninth weekly mass rally, galvanised by the departure of longtime president Abdelaziz Bouteflika but vowing to keep up their demands for sweeping reforms.

Protesters in central Algiers on Friday staged their ninth weekly mass rally, galvanised by the departure of longtime president Abdelaziz Bouteflika but vowing to keep up their demands for sweeping reforms. Algerians first hit the streets in huge numbers on February 22 after the octogenarian leader's announcement that he would stand for a fifth term in presidential elections that had been scheduled for Thursday. But his departure early this month spurred demonstrators to seek further changes, notably the resignation of three senior Bouteflika allies. Activists chalked up a second victory Tuesday as one of the three, constitutional council chief Tayeb Belaiz, followed Bouteflika to the exit. But student Lyes Adimi, 24, said more change was needed. "Just because Belaiz has resigned that doesn't mean it's over," she said. "What has the constitutional council ever done apart from validating the fraud of the system it belongs to?" Protesters are demanding the resignation of the two remaining members of a group dubbed the "3B" -- interim leader Abdelkader Bensalah and Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui -- saying regime stalwarts should be entirely excluded from any political transition. Belaiz's replacement, little-known senior judge and former prosecutor Kamel Feniche, is also seen as a regime loyalist. On Friday, hundreds rallied outside the capital's iconic main Post Office building, chanting: "The people want them all to leave!" and "Barakat (Enough of) this system!" Despite Bensalah calling a presidential election on July 4, Algerian demonstrations are demanding a broader overhaul of the political system. The army "is convinced that the crisis can be managed through appeasement", said Geneva-based political scientist Hasni Abidi. He said its strategy was one of "gradually minimising the scope of concessions". But army chief Ahmed Gaid Salah hinted this week that the military may soften its position, saying: "All options remain open... in order to find a solution to the crisis as soon as possible." He also vowed that the Algerian army would not turn its weapons on its people, but would make sure that "no drop of Algerian blood is spilled". Police forces, accused in past weeks of trying to quell the protest movement amid teargas-soaked clashes with demonstrators, were keeping a low profile Friday.

Algerians demand more concessions in 9th week of mass protests

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

Algerian People Protest Against The Interim President Abdelkader Bensalah

Gravitas: Massive Protests in Algeria as Political Crisis Intensifies

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

Algeria MPs on Tuesday announced speaker Abdelkader Bensalah as interim president, State media reported.

The move by parliament follows constitutional rules but goes against the demands of demonstrators, who have pushed for Bensalah to stand down.

Bensalah will remain as interim president until new elections are held, as per Algerian constitution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-president-abdelaziz-bouteflika-submits-resignation-with-immediate-effect-207621">Algeria's ex-president Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned</a> on March 2 amid the protests.

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.

Few days after the resignation Algerians gathered for a fresh protest demanding Bouteflika's allies to quit too.

Opponents said that Abdelkader Bensalah, Tayeb Belaiz and Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui should follow the lead of Bouteflika and resign.

(With inputs from AFP)

Algeria MPs on Tuesday announced speaker Abdelkader Bensalah as interim president, State media reported. The move by parliament follows constitutional rules but goes against the demands of demonstrators, who have pushed for Bensalah to stand down.

Algeria MPs on Tuesday announced speaker Abdelkader Bensalah as interim president, State media reported. The move by parliament follows constitutional rules but goes against the demands of demonstrators, who have pushed for Bensalah to stand down. Bensalah will remain as interim president until new elections are held, as per Algerian constitution. Algeria's ex-president Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned on March 2 amid the protests. 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. Few days after the resignation Algerians gathered for a fresh protest demanding Bouteflika's allies to quit too. Opponents said that Abdelkader Bensalah, Tayeb Belaiz and Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui should follow the lead of Bouteflika and resign. (With inputs from AFP)

Algeria MPs name speaker Abdelkader Bensalah as interim president: Report

Two days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-president-abdelaziz-bouteflika-submits-resignation-with-immediate-effect-207621">Algeria's President Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned</a>, Algerians again gathers for mass protests on Friday targeting Abdelkader Bensalah, Tayeb Belaiz and Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui.

Protestors took to social media calling for ''joyful demonstrations'' to bring down the dictatorial regime. Opponents called for a massive turnout.

"Bouteflika leaving means nothing if his men continue to run the country," Said Wafi, a bank worker from the nearby city of Boumerdes said.

Samir Ouzine, 19, a student said, "Bouteflika was very sick. He wasn't really governing, and nothing will change if he alone leaves and his men stay."

Opponents said that all three should follow the lead of Bouteflika and resign.

Hours before the rally was set to begin, several hundred demonstrators had already gathered outside the main post office in central Algiers, which has been the epicentre of the protest movement.

Few people shouted "we will not forgive'' in a reply to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bouteflika-apologises-to-algerians-in-farewell-letter-state-media-207794">Bouteflika's letter which was issued after his resignation</a>. He apologised to the Algerian people for the mistake he made.

Two days after Algeria's President Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned, Algerians again gathers for mass protests on Friday targeting Abdelkader Bensalah, Tayeb Belaiz and Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui.

Two days after Algeria's President Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned, Algerians again gathers for mass protests on Friday targeting Abdelkader Bensalah, Tayeb Belaiz and Prime Minister Noureddine Bedoui. Protestors took to social media calling for ''joyful demonstrations'' to bring down the dictatorial regime. Opponents called for a massive turnout. "Bouteflika leaving means nothing if his men continue to run the country," Said Wafi, a bank worker from the nearby city of Boumerdes said. Samir Ouzine, 19, a student said, "Bouteflika was very sick. He wasn't really governing, and nothing will change if he alone leaves and his men stay." Opponents said that all three should follow the lead of Bouteflika and resign. Hours before the rally was set to begin, several hundred demonstrators had already gathered outside the main post office in central Algiers, which has been the epicentre of the protest movement. Few people shouted "we will not forgive'' in a reply to Bouteflika's letter which was issued after his resignation. He apologised to the Algerian people for the mistake he made.

Algerians hold protests for Bouteflika allies to quit too

Abdelaziz Bouteflika on Wednesday offered his "apologies" to the Algerian people in a letter published by state media, after he resigned as president in the face of huge protests.

"I leave the political stage without sadness or fear for the future of our country," Bouteflika said in the letter released by the APS news agency.

Algerians demand sweeping change as Bouteflika era ends

Flag-waving Algerians have celebrated the resignation of veteran president Abdelaziz Bouteflika, but vowed Wednesday to keep protesting to demand sweeping change to the country's political system.

The 82-year-old's departure, announced on state media late Tuesday, followed weeks of massive demonstrations that have shaken the North African nation.

Car horns sounded on the streets before jubilant crowds converged in the centre of the capital Algiers to cheer his departure.

Many Algerians have never known any president other than Bouteflika, who held power for two decades but was rarely seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013.

Protesters in Algiers welcomed his departure but said they were determined to continue demonstrating, rejecting any transition that leaves power in the hands of the "system".

"I want my daughter to remember this historic day. Bouteflika's gone, but it's far from over," said 35-year-old Amal, who wore a T-shirt with the slogan "I am against the system" and vowed to march again on Friday.

For 44-year-old engineer Hamid Boumaza, Bouteflika's resignation was "too little, too late".

"Bouteflika's departure is no longer enough. We want them all to go. We want full freedom and we will march for as long as necessary."&nbsp;

Others paid tribute to the leader, but regretted that he had clung to power for so long.

"Bouteflika worked. I voted for him at first, but he didn't know how to leave with his head held high," said Bilan Brahim, 40.

'Appeasement of hearts' 
Algeria's Constitutional Council said Wednesday it had accepted Bouteflika's resignation and informed parliament that his post was officially vacant.

But some 20 Algerian civil society groups said shortly afterwards they would refuse a transition of power that kept the same structure in place, calling for protests Friday for "democratic change".&nbsp;

"Bouteflika's resignation... is a first victory... but it is not enough," they said in a joint statement.

Algeria's constitution says that the speaker of the upper house of parliament, currently 77-year-old Abdelkader Bensalah, should now act as interim leader for up to 90 days during which a presidential election must be organised.

Algeria has largely avoided the turmoil 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 Bouteflika announced in February that he would seek a fifth term in office in an election that had been scheduled for this month.

He dropped his bid in the face of the mass protests but also postponed the vote, angering Algerians who saw the move as a ploy to stay in power.

As pressure mounted, state television announced late Tuesday that Bouteflika had submitted his resignation to the Constitutional Council.

The decision aimed "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," his resignation letter read.

Footage showed Bouteflika, dressed in a beige North African tunic and sitting in his wheelchair, handing the letter to the council's head, Tayeb Belaiz.

The resignation came shortly after the military demanded impeachment proceedings against Bouteflika.

Armed forces chief Ahmed Gaid Salah said the army's "sole ambition" was to "protect the people from a handful of (other) people who have unduly taken over the wealth of the Algerian people".

Although credited with helping foster peace after Algeria's decade-long civil war, Bouteflika has faced criticism for alleged authoritarianism.

Former prime minister-turned-rival Ali Benflis said his departure was the "woeful epilogue" to the past two decades and praised the protest movement as "a peaceful people's revolution".

Calls for 'democratic transition' 
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised "the mature and calm nature in which the Algerian people have been expressing their desire for change," said a UN statement.

"He looks forward to a peaceful and democratic transition process that reflects the wishes of the Algerian people," it added.

The United States said the future of the country "is for the Algerian people to decide".

Russia, a long-time ally of Algeria, called for a transition without foreign "interference".

The foreign minister of former colonial power France, Jean-Yves Le Drian, said he was confident Algeria's "democratic transition" could continue "in the same spirit of calm and responsibility" seen in recent weeks.

Algerian business tycoon and long-time Bouteflika backer Ali Haddad was placed in detention Wednesday days after he was arrested while trying to cross into Tunisia with undeclared currency and two passports.&nbsp;

Haddad, who Forbes magazine describes as one of the country's wealthiest entrepreneurs, was widely seen as a political tool for the ailing leader.&nbsp;

The judiciary has launched corruption investigations and, according to local media, banned a dozen prominent businessmen linked to Bouteflika from leaving the country.

Abdelaziz Bouteflika on Wednesday offered his "apologies" to the Algerian people in a letter published by state media, after he resigned as president in the face of huge protests.

Abdelaziz Bouteflika on Wednesday offered his "apologies" to the Algerian people in a letter published by state media, after he resigned as president in the face of huge protests. "I leave the political stage without sadness or fear for the future of our country," Bouteflika said in the letter released by the APS news agency. Algerians demand sweeping change as Bouteflika era ends Flag-waving Algerians have celebrated the resignation of veteran president Abdelaziz Bouteflika, but vowed Wednesday to keep protesting to demand sweeping change to the country's political system. The 82-year-old's departure, announced on state media late Tuesday, followed weeks of massive demonstrations that have shaken the North African nation. Car horns sounded on the streets before jubilant crowds converged in the centre of the capital Algiers to cheer his departure. Many Algerians have never known any president other than Bouteflika, who held power for two decades but was rarely seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013. Protesters in Algiers welcomed his departure but said they were determined to continue demonstrating, rejecting any transition that leaves power in the hands of the "system". "I want my daughter to remember this historic day. Bouteflika's gone, but it's far from over," said 35-year-old Amal, who wore a T-shirt with the slogan "I am against the system" and vowed to march again on Friday. For 44-year-old engineer Hamid Boumaza, Bouteflika's resignation was "too little, too late". "Bouteflika's departure is no longer enough. We want them all to go. We want full freedom and we will march for as long as necessary." Others paid tribute to the leader, but regretted that he had clung to power for so long. "Bouteflika worked. I voted for him at first, but he didn't know how to leave with his head held high," said Bilan Brahim, 40. 'Appeasement of hearts' Algeria's Constitutional Council said Wednesday it had accepted Bouteflika's resignation and informed parliament that his post was officially vacant. But some 20 Algerian civil society groups said shortly afterwards they would refuse a transition of power that kept the same structure in place, calling for protests Friday for "democratic change". "Bouteflika's resignation... is a first victory... but it is not enough," they said in a joint statement. Algeria's constitution says that the speaker of the upper house of parliament, currently 77-year-old Abdelkader Bensalah, should now act as interim leader for up to 90 days during which a presidential election must be organised. Algeria has largely avoided the turmoil 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 Bouteflika announced in February that he would seek a fifth term in office in an election that had been scheduled for this month. He dropped his bid in the face of the mass protests but also postponed the vote, angering Algerians who saw the move as a ploy to stay in power. As pressure mounted, state television announced late Tuesday that Bouteflika had submitted his resignation to the Constitutional Council. The decision aimed "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," his resignation letter read. Footage showed Bouteflika, dressed in a beige North African tunic and sitting in his wheelchair, handing the letter to the council's head, Tayeb Belaiz. The resignation came shortly after the military demanded impeachment proceedings against Bouteflika. Armed forces chief Ahmed Gaid Salah said the army's "sole ambition" was to "protect the people from a handful of (other) people who have unduly taken over the wealth of the Algerian people". Although credited with helping foster peace after Algeria's decade-long civil war, Bouteflika has faced criticism for alleged authoritarianism. Former prime minister-turned-rival Ali Benflis said his departure was the "woeful epilogue" to the past two decades and praised the protest movement as "a peaceful people's revolution". Calls for 'democratic transition' UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised "the mature and calm nature in which the Algerian people have been expressing their desire for change," said a UN statement. "He looks forward to a peaceful and democratic transition process that reflects the wishes of the Algerian people," it added. The United States said the future of the country "is for the Algerian people to decide". Russia, a long-time ally of Algeria, called for a transition without foreign "interference". The foreign minister of former colonial power France, Jean-Yves Le Drian, said he was confident Algeria's "democratic transition" could continue "in the same spirit of calm and responsibility" seen in recent weeks. Algerian business tycoon and long-time Bouteflika backer Ali Haddad was placed in detention Wednesday days after he was arrested while trying to cross into Tunisia with undeclared currency and two passports. Haddad, who Forbes magazine describes as one of the country's wealthiest entrepreneurs, was widely seen as a political tool for the ailing leader. The judiciary has launched corruption investigations and, according to local media, banned a dozen prominent businessmen linked to Bouteflika from leaving the country.

Bouteflika 'apologises' to Algerians in farewell letter: State media

WION Gravitas: Algeria celebrates as Bouteflika quits

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

The Kremlin on Wednesday said it hoped for a transition of power in Algeria without foreign "interference" after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-president-abdelaziz-bouteflika-submits-resignation-with-immediate-effect-207621">President Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned</a> in the face of massive street protests.&nbsp;

"We expect that the internal processes that are happening in this country and are exclusively the internal affair of Algeria will take place without the interference of any third countries," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

He added that Russia has "mutually beneficial, friendly relations" with Algeria and that the two countries share "many joint projects in the economic sphere."&nbsp;

Russia is an ally of the north African state to which it supplies weapons.&nbsp;

Bouteflika, 82, had ruled the former French colony for two decades and had long been accused of clinging to power.&nbsp;

The veteran leader faced mounting pressure to step down following his decision to seek a fifth term, despite rarely being seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013.

His decision to stand aside was announced on state television late Tuesday. 
&nbsp;

The Kremlin on Wednesday said it hoped for a transition of power in Algeria without foreign "interference" after President Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned in the face of massive street protests.

The Kremlin on Wednesday said it hoped for a transition of power in Algeria without foreign "interference" after President Abdelaziz Bouteflika resigned in the face of massive street protests. "We expect that the internal processes that are happening in this country and are exclusively the internal affair of Algeria will take place without the interference of any third countries," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. He added that Russia has "mutually beneficial, friendly relations" with Algeria and that the two countries share "many joint projects in the economic sphere." Russia is an ally of the north African state to which it supplies weapons. Bouteflika, 82, had ruled the former French colony for two decades and had long been accused of clinging to power. The veteran leader faced mounting pressure to step down following his decision to seek a fifth term, despite rarely being seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013. His decision to stand aside was announced on state television late Tuesday.

Kremlin urges no foreign 'interference' in Algeria

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'

Algeria's president might resign this week

The army has thrust itself into the kingmaker role in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alegria-thousands-demonstrate-in-algiers-as-protest-leaders-tell-army-to-stay-away-204385">Algeria`s crisis</a>, but as it works backstage to remove an ailing president and broker calls from the street for democracy, it will be careful to shore up its own immense political clout.

For the past six weeks, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-constitutional-council-has-not-met-on-bouteflika-state-radio-206313">Algerians have marched to unseat</a> not only President Abdelaziz Bouteflika but also the whole ruling elite -- veterans of an independence war against France, plus their allies in the army, business, legislature and unions.

Some Algerians wonder whether the military, whose expertise lies in producing political continuity rather than change, is the institution to manage the radical political and economic overhaul many Algerians are calling for.

But whatever new system eventually emerges from the upheaval, the army is signalling it wants to retain the decisive role in national affairs it has had since independence in 1962.

Its influence grows more evident by the day.

With Bouteflika resisting immense popular pressure to step down immediately, the army chief stepped in to break the impasse on March 22 by calling on the constitutional council to declare the veteran head of state -- 82 and ailing -- unfit to rule.&nbsp;

The move, placing a large question mark over Bouteflika`s own plan to stay on temporarily to oversee his own succession, sent a shockwave through the political establishment.

In the days that followed, two leading political parties and the country`s biggest labour union - longtime establishment supporters of the president -- echoed the army`s call.

"The game is between the presidency and the demonstrators. And the referee is the army. So you can exclude a player, but you cannot exclude the referee," said a retired army general.

The ideal scenario for the army, former generals say, would be a compromise candidate for president who would meet some demands of the protesters while enabling the generals to help shape the future. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
POLITICAL OVERHAUL&nbsp;

"I can imagine more concessions from the army, including accepting candidates from the demonstrators to handle the transition," said a retired military intelligence officer.

So far, the reaction to the army`s intervention from protest leaders -- some of whom want a complete political revamp removing any army influence in politics -- has been a mixture of caution and pragmatism.

"The military showed that it was with the people during the protests," lawyer and activist Moustafa Bouchachi, the most prominent figure to emerge from the protests, told Reuters.&nbsp;

"I hope it will continue to be with the people, and yes I hope it will help secure a transition."

Like all protesters, he wants a new generation of leaders to overhaul the country`s stagnant politics and jump-start a limping economy that Algerians say is riven with cronyism.

But he says it is too early to discuss who will succeed Bouteflika.

Some of those who are prepared to speculate see opposition politician Ahmed Benbitour as a possible contender. He resigned as prime minister under Bouteflika due to disagreements over the economic dominance of the ruling elite and lack of transparency.&nbsp;

Other names include former communication minister Abdelaziz Rahabi and former president and army general Liamine Zeroual.

But whoever becomes caretaker president will have to be acceptable to the generals.

While Algeria’s local and parliamentary elections can be genuine contests, albeit open only to parties approved by the authorities, presidential elections are tightly controlled and the army’s preferred candidate in effect is guaranteed to win.

MILITARY WANTS STABILITY&nbsp;

Since the army has always preferred to stay behind the scenes in politics, it is unlikely to follow Egypt`s example after its uprising in 2011. General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi toppled an Islamist leader and then was eventually elected president, part of a long line of military men to rule the country.

At the same time, Algeria`s military is unlikely to cede much power to any future civilian president.

Bouteflika, a tough political infighter, is a case in point. He worked for years to ease the generals` clout and make the presidency more powerful by sacking dozens of top officers.&nbsp;

But he struggled to curb the army’s sway, even after he removed General Mohamed Mediene, a spy chief dubbed "Algeria’s God" because many saw him as the real authority in the country.

In the current turmoil, the army could consider using force if unrest worsens sharply. But that seems unlikely: So far the protests have been peaceful, even festive. The army has stayed on the sidelines, in sharp contrast to early 1990s when bearded Islamists alarmed the generals with radical rallies.

No Algerian wants to return to those days, when the army cancelled elections Islamists were poised to win, triggering a war that killed up to 200,000 people. But a return to nationwide civil disturbances that shook the north African country in 2001-02 and 1988 cannot be ruled out if protests grow.

What all sides agree on is the need for a leader who puts reform of the Soviet-style economy high on the priority list.&nbsp;

In a report, Moody`s rating agency said it expects a protracted period of uncertainty to weigh on economic prospects.

"The military wants stability and the generals know that this will only be achieved if you have a man with a viable economic vision to convince Algerians that economic reforms are the only way to move forward," said the retired general.

The army has thrust itself into the kingmaker role in Algeria`s crisis, but as it works backstage to remove an ailing president and broker calls from the street for democracy, it will be careful to shore up its own immense political clout.

The army has thrust itself into the kingmaker role in Algeria`s crisis, but as it works backstage to remove an ailing president and broker calls from the street for democracy, it will be careful to shore up its own immense political clout. For the past six weeks, Algerians have marched to unseat not only President Abdelaziz Bouteflika but also the whole ruling elite -- veterans of an independence war against France, plus their allies in the army, business, legislature and unions. Some Algerians wonder whether the military, whose expertise lies in producing political continuity rather than change, is the institution to manage the radical political and economic overhaul many Algerians are calling for. But whatever new system eventually emerges from the upheaval, the army is signalling it wants to retain the decisive role in national affairs it has had since independence in 1962. Its influence grows more evident by the day. With Bouteflika resisting immense popular pressure to step down immediately, the army chief stepped in to break the impasse on March 22 by calling on the constitutional council to declare the veteran head of state -- 82 and ailing -- unfit to rule. The move, placing a large question mark over Bouteflika`s own plan to stay on temporarily to oversee his own succession, sent a shockwave through the political establishment. In the days that followed, two leading political parties and the country`s biggest labour union - longtime establishment supporters of the president -- echoed the army`s call. "The game is between the presidency and the demonstrators. And the referee is the army. So you can exclude a player, but you cannot exclude the referee," said a retired army general. The ideal scenario for the army, former generals say, would be a compromise candidate for president who would meet some demands of the protesters while enabling the generals to help shape the future. POLITICAL OVERHAUL "I can imagine more concessions from the army, including accepting candidates from the demonstrators to handle the transition," said a retired military intelligence officer. So far, the reaction to the army`s intervention from protest leaders -- some of whom want a complete political revamp removing any army influence in politics -- has been a mixture of caution and pragmatism. "The military showed that it was with the people during the protests," lawyer and activist Moustafa Bouchachi, the most prominent figure to emerge from the protests, told Reuters. "I hope it will continue to be with the people, and yes I hope it will help secure a transition." Like all protesters, he wants a new generation of leaders to overhaul the country`s stagnant politics and jump-start a limping economy that Algerians say is riven with cronyism. But he says it is too early to discuss who will succeed Bouteflika. Some of those who are prepared to speculate see opposition politician Ahmed Benbitour as a possible contender. He resigned as prime minister under Bouteflika due to disagreements over the economic dominance of the ruling elite and lack of transparency. Other names include former communication minister Abdelaziz Rahabi and former president and army general Liamine Zeroual. But whoever becomes caretaker president will have to be acceptable to the generals. While Algeria’s local and parliamentary elections can be genuine contests, albeit open only to parties approved by the authorities, presidential elections are tightly controlled and the army’s preferred candidate in effect is guaranteed to win. MILITARY WANTS STABILITY Since the army has always preferred to stay behind the scenes in politics, it is unlikely to follow Egypt`s example after its uprising in 2011. General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi toppled an Islamist leader and then was eventually elected president, part of a long line of military men to rule the country. At the same time, Algeria`s military is unlikely to cede much power to any future civilian president. Bouteflika, a tough political infighter, is a case in point. He worked for years to ease the generals` clout and make the presidency more powerful by sacking dozens of top officers. But he struggled to curb the army’s sway, even after he removed General Mohamed Mediene, a spy chief dubbed "Algeria’s God" because many saw him as the real authority in the country. In the current turmoil, the army could consider using force if unrest worsens sharply. But that seems unlikely: So far the protests have been peaceful, even festive. The army has stayed on the sidelines, in sharp contrast to early 1990s when bearded Islamists alarmed the generals with radical rallies. No Algerian wants to return to those days, when the army cancelled elections Islamists were poised to win, triggering a war that killed up to 200,000 people. But a return to nationwide civil disturbances that shook the north African country in 2001-02 and 1988 cannot be ruled out if protests grow. What all sides agree on is the need for a leader who puts reform of the Soviet-style economy high on the priority list. In a report, Moody`s rating agency said it expects a protracted period of uncertainty to weigh on economic prospects. "The military wants stability and the generals know that this will only be achieved if you have a man with a viable economic vision to convince Algerians that economic reforms are the only way to move forward," said the retired general.

Kingmaker once more, Algeria's army confronts demand for real change

Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of central Algiers again on Thursday to demand the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algerias-biggest-protest-demand-president-bouteflikas-quit-203635">resignation of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika</a> and changes to the political system after the powerful army called for the veteran leader to be removed.

The army chief of staff, Lieutenant General Ahmed Gaed Salah, on Tuesday asked the constitutional council to rule whether the ailing 82-year-old president is fit for office.&nbsp;

State radio said on Thursday that the council has not yet held any meeting so far to decide on Bouteflika`s fate.

Salah`s call received backing from the ruling FLN party and the main trade union, signalling that Bouteflika`s time was all but up after 20 years in power.

But leaders of the protest movement that has staged five weeks of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/powerful-party-joins-algerian-army-calling-for-bouteflikas-exit-206035"> peaceful demonstrations </a>reject the army`s transition plan and demand the overthrow of the entire ruling elite.

Hundreds of Algerians rallied again on Thursday to criticise not just Bouteflika but also the political system, which for decades has been built around veterans of the 1954-1962 war of independence against France, military officers and business tycoons.

"Thieves, you have destroyed the country," they chanted. "Our battle will continue until we get rid of the system," said architect Belaid Hakimi, 36.

The General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA), long a staunch supporter of the president, has also said it supported the army call for Bouteflika to step down.

Any ruling by the council would have to be ratified by a two-thirds majority in the two houses of parliament.&nbsp;

Under the constitution, the chairman of parliament`s upper house, Abdelkader Bensalah, would serve as caretaker president for at least 45 days after Bouteflika`s departure.&nbsp;

But even if Bouteflika quits, there is no clear long-term successor.

Even if both sides dig in, no Algerian wants to risk returning to the dark days of the 1990s, when the army`s cancellation of elections that Islamists were on the verge of winning triggered a civil war that killed 200,000 people.

Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of central Algiers again on Thursday to demand the resignation of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and changes to the political system after the powerful army called for the veteran leader to be removed.

Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of central Algiers again on Thursday to demand the resignation of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and changes to the political system after the powerful army called for the veteran leader to be removed. The army chief of staff, Lieutenant General Ahmed Gaed Salah, on Tuesday asked the constitutional council to rule whether the ailing 82-year-old president is fit for office. State radio said on Thursday that the council has not yet held any meeting so far to decide on Bouteflika`s fate. Salah`s call received backing from the ruling FLN party and the main trade union, signalling that Bouteflika`s time was all but up after 20 years in power. But leaders of the protest movement that has staged five weeks of peaceful demonstrations reject the army`s transition plan and demand the overthrow of the entire ruling elite. Hundreds of Algerians rallied again on Thursday to criticise not just Bouteflika but also the political system, which for decades has been built around veterans of the 1954-1962 war of independence against France, military officers and business tycoons. "Thieves, you have destroyed the country," they chanted. "Our battle will continue until we get rid of the system," said architect Belaid Hakimi, 36. The General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA), long a staunch supporter of the president, has also said it supported the army call for Bouteflika to step down. Any ruling by the council would have to be ratified by a two-thirds majority in the two houses of parliament. Under the constitution, the chairman of parliament`s upper house, Abdelkader Bensalah, would serve as caretaker president for at least 45 days after Bouteflika`s departure. But even if Bouteflika quits, there is no clear long-term successor. Even if both sides dig in, no Algerian wants to risk returning to the dark days of the 1990s, when the army`s cancellation of elections that Islamists were on the verge of winning triggered a civil war that killed 200,000 people.

Algeria constitutional council has not met on Bouteflika: State radio

Algerian amry chief asks for Presidency to be vacated

An influential Algerian party on Wednesday backed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/algerian-amry-chief-asks-for-presidency-to-be-vacated-205964">army`s call for President Abdel Aziz Bouteflika to go</a> in a managed exit plan that was quickly rejected by protesters demanding the overthrow of the entire political elite.

The statement from the National Rally for Democracy (RND), a member of the ruling coalition, came a day after the military - Algeria`s traditional kingmakers - said Bouteflika should be declared unfit for office.

The announcements by two pillars of the establishment were a clear signal that the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thousands-of-algerians-rally-against-fifth-bouteflika-term-200620"> 82-year-old president </a>- who has rarely appeared in public since suffering a stroke in 2013 - has little to no chance of staying in power in the North African country, an oil and gas producer.

But the leaders of five weeks of mass protests fuelled by anger over alleged corruption, nepotism and economic mismanagement said the plan still did not go far enough.&nbsp;

"Protests will continue... Algerians` demands include a change of the political system," Mustapha Bouchachi, a lawyer and activist, told Reuters.

"The implementation of Article 102 (the part of the constitution that covers declaring a president unfit for office) means that the symbols of the system will oversee the transition period and organise presidential elections," he said.&nbsp;

Protesters have repeatedly said they would reject any orchestrated succession or military interference in politics and want a transition which will lead to a government by consensus.

HIGH STAKES

The army`s powerful chief of staff, Lieutenant General Ahmed Gaed Salah, told officers in a speech broadcast on Tuesday, that the solution to the biggest political crisis since the army cancelled elections in 1992 would be the exit of the president on health grounds.&nbsp;

RND leader Ahmed Ouyahia issued a statement saying Bouteflika should quit under Article 102, which also covers presidential resignations.

Salah called on the country`s constitutional council to rule whether the president was fit for office. Such a ruling would have to be ratified by members of parliament`s lower and upper house by a two-thirds majority.&nbsp;

While the military has praised protesters, it remains highly sensitive to any signs of instability and Salah has warned he will not allow the demonstrations to lead to chaos.

Any outright military rejection of demands for a democratic transition could lead to a confrontation with the crowds.

"Is there a risk of radicalisation or confrontation if demonstrators reject the army approach? This is a hypothesis that can not be totally excluded," said Louisa Dris, professor of political science at Algiers University.

The last time the army directly stepped in during a crisis was in 1992, when the generals cancelled an election that Islamists were poised to win. That move triggered a civil war that killed an estimated 200,000 people.

The stakes are high - Algeria is a leading member of OPEC and a top gas supplier to Europe, though so far oil and gas output appears unaffected by the unrest, an International Energy Agency (IEA) official said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Algeria is also regarded by Western states as a partner in counter-terrorism, a significant military force in North Africa and a key diplomatic player in efforts to resolve crises in neighbouring Mali and Libya.

For years, rumours have swirled about potential successors, but no single credible candidate has emerged with the backing of the military, the political and security establishment who is not at least 70.

Based on the constitution`s Article 102, the chairman of parliament`s upper house, Abdelkader Bensalah, would serve as caretaker president for at least 45 days after Bouteflika`s departure.

An influential Algerian party on Wednesday backed the army`s call for President Abdel Aziz Bouteflika to go in a managed exit plan that was quickly rejected by protesters demanding the overthrow of the entire political elite.

An influential Algerian party on Wednesday backed the army`s call for President Abdel Aziz Bouteflika to go in a managed exit plan that was quickly rejected by protesters demanding the overthrow of the entire political elite. The statement from the National Rally for Democracy (RND), a member of the ruling coalition, came a day after the military - Algeria`s traditional kingmakers - said Bouteflika should be declared unfit for office. The announcements by two pillars of the establishment were a clear signal that the 82-year-old president - who has rarely appeared in public since suffering a stroke in 2013 - has little to no chance of staying in power in the North African country, an oil and gas producer. But the leaders of five weeks of mass protests fuelled by anger over alleged corruption, nepotism and economic mismanagement said the plan still did not go far enough. "Protests will continue... Algerians` demands include a change of the political system," Mustapha Bouchachi, a lawyer and activist, told Reuters. "The implementation of Article 102 (the part of the constitution that covers declaring a president unfit for office) means that the symbols of the system will oversee the transition period and organise presidential elections," he said. Protesters have repeatedly said they would reject any orchestrated succession or military interference in politics and want a transition which will lead to a government by consensus. HIGH STAKES The army`s powerful chief of staff, Lieutenant General Ahmed Gaed Salah, told officers in a speech broadcast on Tuesday, that the solution to the biggest political crisis since the army cancelled elections in 1992 would be the exit of the president on health grounds. RND leader Ahmed Ouyahia issued a statement saying Bouteflika should quit under Article 102, which also covers presidential resignations. Salah called on the country`s constitutional council to rule whether the president was fit for office. Such a ruling would have to be ratified by members of parliament`s lower and upper house by a two-thirds majority. While the military has praised protesters, it remains highly sensitive to any signs of instability and Salah has warned he will not allow the demonstrations to lead to chaos. Any outright military rejection of demands for a democratic transition could lead to a confrontation with the crowds. "Is there a risk of radicalisation or confrontation if demonstrators reject the army approach? This is a hypothesis that can not be totally excluded," said Louisa Dris, professor of political science at Algiers University. The last time the army directly stepped in during a crisis was in 1992, when the generals cancelled an election that Islamists were poised to win. That move triggered a civil war that killed an estimated 200,000 people. The stakes are high - Algeria is a leading member of OPEC and a top gas supplier to Europe, though so far oil and gas output appears unaffected by the unrest, an International Energy Agency (IEA) official said on Tuesday. Algeria is also regarded by Western states as a partner in counter-terrorism, a significant military force in North Africa and a key diplomatic player in efforts to resolve crises in neighbouring Mali and Libya. For years, rumours have swirled about potential successors, but no single credible candidate has emerged with the backing of the military, the political and security establishment who is not at least 70. Based on the constitution`s Article 102, the chairman of parliament`s upper house, Abdelkader Bensalah, would serve as caretaker president for at least 45 days after Bouteflika`s departure.

Powerful party joins Algerian army calling for Bouteflika's exit

Hundreds of thousands of people protested in central Algiers on Friday in the biggest demonstration against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-ruling-party-turns-its-back-on-bouteflika-he-is-history-203535">President Abdelaziz Bouteflika</a>'s 20-year rule since unrest began last month.

Protesters crammed streets and squares in the capital after Friday prayers, many draped in Algeria's green, white and red flag. Demonstrations also took place in Bejaia, Oran, Batna, Tizi Ouzou and other cities.

"Bouteflika and his men must go as soon as possible," said Yazid Ammari, 23, a student.

Reuters journalists estimated the crowd at hundreds of thousands of people, though there was no police estimate. The number fell to thousands by late afternoon.

A statement from the Algerian national police (DGSN) said it arrested people involved in vandalism, theft and destruction of public and private property.

No heavy clashes were reported but the authorities said some 75 protesters were arrested and 11 policemen were slightly injured during the demonstrations.

Bouteflika on Monday reversed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algerias-president-bouteflika-abandons-re-election-bid-after-weeks-of-protest-202747">decision to stand for another term </a>after weeks of demonstrations against him, but he stopped short of relinquishing office and said he would stay on until a new constitution is adopted.&nbsp;

Algerians quickly rejected his offer and demanded that the 82-year-old president hand over power to a young generation of leaders who can create jobs and stamp out corruption.

"Those who think we are tired are wrong. Our protests will not stop," said doctor Madjid Benzida, 37, as police blocked streets leading to government offices and parliament.

Bouteflika has rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013. Protesters say he is no longer fit for office.&nbsp;

The president has been losing allies in recent days since returning from medical treatment in Switzerland.

Hocine Kheldoun, a senior figure from the ruling National Liberation Front party, known by its French acronym FLN, said in an interview on Thursday night the long-ruling president was "history now."

The remarks by Kheldoun to Ennahar television were another setback for Bouteflika, who hoped to pacify Algerians by promising to take steps to change a political landscape that has been dominated for decades by a ruling elite.

Kheldoun, a former ruling party spokesman, became one of the most senior FLN officials to break with Bouteflika publicly, saying the party had to look forward and support the aims of demonstrators.

Some parents brought their children to Friday`s demonstration.

"I want a better future," said Mohamed Kemime, 10, draped in a national flag.

One of Algeria`s most influential clerics appealed for patience. &nbsp;

"Let’s be optimistic, Algeria needs to overcome its crisis," said Mohamed Abdelkader Haider from an Algiers mosque.&nbsp;

The new prime minister, Noureddine Bedoui, said on Thursday he would form a temporary government of technocrats and others to work towards political change, and he urged the opposition to join in a dialogue.

'GAME OVER'

A former minister who is familiar with Bouteflika`s inner circle told Reuters that the president could not survive given the pressure building against him.

"Game over. Bouteflika has no choice but to quit now," the former minister said on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

Algeria is a major oil and gas producer, but so far exports have not been affected by the unrest. Its biggest oil field Hassi Messaoud and its Hassi Rmel gas field have been operating normally, a source from state oil giant Sonatrach told Reuters.

Many Algerians say that the president and other veterans of the 1954-62 war of independence against France have neglected them for decades.

The military, which has traditionally played a behind-the-scenes power broker role, has distanced itself from Bouteflika and stayed in its barracks throughout the crisis. It is expected to retain influence under all scenarios.

Algeria was relatively untouched when the 2011 "Arab Spring" uprisings swept away veteran autocrats in the Arab world. Bouteflika and his allies, effective manipulators of the opposition, managed to avoid major unrest by spending oil revenue on popular programs, such as handing out low interest loans and housing.

Bouteflika helped to defeat a civil war against Islamist insurgents in which tens of thousands of people were killed in the 1990s, and many Algerians long accepted heavy-handed rule as the price of stability.

But the public has lost patience with deteriorating economic conditions and the FLN`s failure to make the transition to a new generation despite the president`s failing health.

Hundreds of thousands of people protested in central Algiers on Friday in the biggest demonstration against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's 20-year rule since unrest began last month.

Hundreds of thousands of people protested in central Algiers on Friday in the biggest demonstration against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's 20-year rule since unrest began last month. Protesters crammed streets and squares in the capital after Friday prayers, many draped in Algeria's green, white and red flag. Demonstrations also took place in Bejaia, Oran, Batna, Tizi Ouzou and other cities. "Bouteflika and his men must go as soon as possible," said Yazid Ammari, 23, a student. Reuters journalists estimated the crowd at hundreds of thousands of people, though there was no police estimate. The number fell to thousands by late afternoon. A statement from the Algerian national police (DGSN) said it arrested people involved in vandalism, theft and destruction of public and private property. No heavy clashes were reported but the authorities said some 75 protesters were arrested and 11 policemen were slightly injured during the demonstrations. Bouteflika on Monday reversed a decision to stand for another term after weeks of demonstrations against him, but he stopped short of relinquishing office and said he would stay on until a new constitution is adopted. Algerians quickly rejected his offer and demanded that the 82-year-old president hand over power to a young generation of leaders who can create jobs and stamp out corruption. "Those who think we are tired are wrong. Our protests will not stop," said doctor Madjid Benzida, 37, as police blocked streets leading to government offices and parliament. Bouteflika has rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013. Protesters say he is no longer fit for office. The president has been losing allies in recent days since returning from medical treatment in Switzerland. Hocine Kheldoun, a senior figure from the ruling National Liberation Front party, known by its French acronym FLN, said in an interview on Thursday night the long-ruling president was "history now." The remarks by Kheldoun to Ennahar television were another setback for Bouteflika, who hoped to pacify Algerians by promising to take steps to change a political landscape that has been dominated for decades by a ruling elite. Kheldoun, a former ruling party spokesman, became one of the most senior FLN officials to break with Bouteflika publicly, saying the party had to look forward and support the aims of demonstrators. Some parents brought their children to Friday`s demonstration. "I want a better future," said Mohamed Kemime, 10, draped in a national flag. One of Algeria`s most influential clerics appealed for patience. "Let’s be optimistic, Algeria needs to overcome its crisis," said Mohamed Abdelkader Haider from an Algiers mosque. The new prime minister, Noureddine Bedoui, said on Thursday he would form a temporary government of technocrats and others to work towards political change, and he urged the opposition to join in a dialogue. 'GAME OVER' A former minister who is familiar with Bouteflika`s inner circle told Reuters that the president could not survive given the pressure building against him. "Game over. Bouteflika has no choice but to quit now," the former minister said on condition of anonymity. Algeria is a major oil and gas producer, but so far exports have not been affected by the unrest. Its biggest oil field Hassi Messaoud and its Hassi Rmel gas field have been operating normally, a source from state oil giant Sonatrach told Reuters. Many Algerians say that the president and other veterans of the 1954-62 war of independence against France have neglected them for decades. The military, which has traditionally played a behind-the-scenes power broker role, has distanced itself from Bouteflika and stayed in its barracks throughout the crisis. It is expected to retain influence under all scenarios. Algeria was relatively untouched when the 2011 "Arab Spring" uprisings swept away veteran autocrats in the Arab world. Bouteflika and his allies, effective manipulators of the opposition, managed to avoid major unrest by spending oil revenue on popular programs, such as handing out low interest loans and housing. Bouteflika helped to defeat a civil war against Islamist insurgents in which tens of thousands of people were killed in the 1990s, and many Algerians long accepted heavy-handed rule as the price of stability. But the public has lost patience with deteriorating economic conditions and the FLN`s failure to make the transition to a new generation despite the president`s failing health.

Algeria's biggest protest demand President Bouteflika's quit

It is paradoxical that while the Arab world cried for democracy during the Arab Spring, the Algerian street was silent. Today the street of Algeria erupted again with a consequence that its incumbent President, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, had to forego his claim for Presidency for a fifth term.

For the past several weeks, thousands of Algerians took to the streets after President Bouteflika announced his decision to run in April’s presidential elections despite his serious health conditions caused by a stroke in 2013. Bouteflika took to power in 1999 after presidential elections in which he was the only running candidate. The outrage among citizens is the result of increasing unemployment, inequality, precarious work conditions, inflation, deteriorating social and economic conditions etc. Among the protestors are mostly youth, teachers, workers, students etc.&nbsp;

The fall of Bouteflika symbolises the continuity of fall of many dictators during Arab Spring: Ben Ali of Tunisia, Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, Muammar Gaddafi Libya, Saleh of Yemen. &nbsp;

Does this mean that eruption of Algerian street is likely to galvanize streets of another Arab world in the direction of democratic reforms? While it’s true that all regimes in the Arab world including the Gulf regimes have learnt the democratic lesson of Arab spring and accordingly introduced some cosmetic democratic reforms in their respective countries. 
 
However, this democratic tokenism is unable to fulfil the aspiration of social media savvy Arab youth. Therefore, in hindsight, it appears that Algerian protests are likely to push qualitative democratic reforms in the Arab countries. However, much will depend on the nature of the crisis of legitimacy of Arab states as well as a decline in the Sunni Shia narratives of conflict in West Asia.&nbsp;

Notwithstanding the uncertainty over democratic transition in view of what is considered a&nbsp;failure of Arab spring, the protesting street of Algeria has expanded the life of “Arab spring” and put a question mark on what is called as “Arab winter”? Algeria since early 1990’s has undergone many ups and downs including the most intense civil war between 1990 and 2001 at the same time it has been one of the most progressive nations of Arab world. Historically, Algeria symbolises the most potent face of anti-imperialism, people’s struggle against the regime and therefore, the current ongoing protest has potential to recenter agenda of equality and democracy not only with Algeria but in the wider Arab world.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
 
 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

It is paradoxical that while the Arab world cried for democracy during the Arab Spring, the Algerian street was silent. Today the street of Algeria erupted again with a consequence that its incumbent President, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, had to forego his claim for Presidency for a fifth term.

It is paradoxical that while the Arab world cried for democracy during the Arab Spring, the Algerian street was silent. Today the street of Algeria erupted again with a consequence that its incumbent President, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, had to forego his claim for Presidency for a fifth term. For the past several weeks, thousands of Algerians took to the streets after President Bouteflika announced his decision to run in April’s presidential elections despite his serious health conditions caused by a stroke in 2013. Bouteflika took to power in 1999 after presidential elections in which he was the only running candidate. The outrage among citizens is the result of increasing unemployment, inequality, precarious work conditions, inflation, deteriorating social and economic conditions etc. Among the protestors are mostly youth, teachers, workers, students etc. The fall of Bouteflika symbolises the continuity of fall of many dictators during Arab Spring: Ben Ali of Tunisia, Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, Muammar Gaddafi Libya, Saleh of Yemen. Does this mean that eruption of Algerian street is likely to galvanize streets of another Arab world in the direction of democratic reforms? While it’s true that all regimes in the Arab world including the Gulf regimes have learnt the democratic lesson of Arab spring and accordingly introduced some cosmetic democratic reforms in their respective countries. However, this democratic tokenism is unable to fulfil the aspiration of social media savvy Arab youth. Therefore, in hindsight, it appears that Algerian protests are likely to push qualitative democratic reforms in the Arab countries. However, much will depend on the nature of the crisis of legitimacy of Arab states as well as a decline in the Sunni Shia narratives of conflict in West Asia. Notwithstanding the uncertainty over democratic transition in view of what is considered a failure of Arab spring, the protesting street of Algeria has expanded the life of “Arab spring” and put a question mark on what is called as “Arab winter”? Algeria since early 1990’s has undergone many ups and downs including the most intense civil war between 1990 and 2001 at the same time it has been one of the most progressive nations of Arab world. Historically, Algeria symbolises the most potent face of anti-imperialism, people’s struggle against the regime and therefore, the current ongoing protest has potential to recenter agenda of equality and democracy not only with Algeria but in the wider Arab world. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Algerian Spring: Will it change the Arab course?

&nbsp;Algeria's&nbsp;ruling&nbsp;FLN&nbsp;party&nbsp;showed more signs of turning&nbsp;its&nbsp;back&nbsp;on Abdelaziz&nbsp;Bouteflika&nbsp;as new protests against him began on Friday, with one senior&nbsp;party figure saying in an interview overnight the&nbsp;long-serving president was 'history now'.

Bouteflika&nbsp;has reversed a decision to stand for another term after mass protests against his rule but stopped short of stepping down and says&nbsp;he&nbsp;will stay on until a new constitution is adopted.&nbsp;He&nbsp;has been losing allies in recent days since returning from medical treatment in Switzerland.

The&nbsp;remarks by Hocine Kheldoun to Ennahar television late on Thursday were another major setback&nbsp;Bouteflika, who hoped to pacify&nbsp;Algerians by promising to take steps to change the&nbsp;political landscape dominated by the&nbsp;president and the&nbsp;ruling&nbsp;elite for decades.

Kheldoun, a former spokesman for the&nbsp;ruling&nbsp;party, became one of the&nbsp;most senior FLN officials to break with&nbsp;Bouteflika&nbsp;publicly.&nbsp;He&nbsp;said the&nbsp;party&nbsp;had to look forward and support the&nbsp;aims of demonstrators protesting against&nbsp;Bouteflika.

On Friday, thousands of protesters gathered in central Algiers to keep pressing&nbsp;Bouteflika&nbsp;to step down.

'FLN goes,'&nbsp;some shouted amid a&nbsp;heavy police presence across the&nbsp;capital. Demonstrations have been peaceful.

"Those who think we are tired are wrong. Our protests will not stop," said doctor Madjid Benzida, 37.

The&nbsp;FLN holds the&nbsp;majority in all elected assemblies, including parliament and local city councils.

Tens of thousands of&nbsp;Algerians have staged protests for weeks demanding a new era with younger leaders who would offer greater social freedoms and prosperity.

Bouteflika, 82, has been in office for 20 years but rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013. The&nbsp;protesters say&nbsp;he&nbsp;is no longer in a fit state to rule.

"GAME OVER"

A former minister who is familiar with&nbsp;Bouteflika's inner circle told Reuters that the&nbsp;president could not survive given the&nbsp;pressure building against him.

“Game over.&nbsp;Bouteflika&nbsp;has no choice but to quit now," the&nbsp;former minister said on condition of anonymity.

More mass protests are expected on Friday in the&nbsp;early afternoon after prayers.

Many&nbsp;Algerians say that the&nbsp;ailing president and other veterans of the&nbsp;1954-1962 war of independence against France should hand over power to young technocrats who can focus on unemployment, poor services and stamping out corruption.

The&nbsp;military, which has traditionally played a behind-the-scenes power broker role, has distanced&nbsp;itself from&nbsp;Bouteflika&nbsp;and stayed in&nbsp;its&nbsp;barracks throughout the&nbsp;crisis. It is expected to retain influence under all scenarios.

Algeria&nbsp;was relatively untouched when the&nbsp;2011 "Arab Spring" uprisings swept away veteran autocrats in the&nbsp;Arab world.&nbsp;Bouteflika&nbsp;and his allies, effective manipulators of the opposition, managed to avoid major unrest by spending oil money on the&nbsp;population.

Bouteflika&nbsp;was credited with ending a civil war against Islamist insurgents in which tens of thousands of people were killed in the&nbsp;1990s, and many&nbsp;Algerians long accepted&nbsp;the heavy-handed rule as the&nbsp;price of stability.

But the&nbsp;public has turned out onto the&nbsp;streets angry at deteriorating economic conditions and the&nbsp;ruling&nbsp;party's failure to make the&nbsp;transition to a new generation of leaders despite the&nbsp;president's failing&nbsp;health.

Algeria's ruling FLN party showed more signs of turning its back on Abdelaziz Bouteflika as new protests against him began on Friday, with one senior party figure saying in an interview overnight the long-serving president was 'history now'.

Algeria's ruling FLN party showed more signs of turning its back on Abdelaziz Bouteflika as new protests against him began on Friday, with one senior party figure saying in an interview overnight the long-serving president was 'history now'. Bouteflika has reversed a decision to stand for another term after mass protests against his rule but stopped short of stepping down and says he will stay on until a new constitution is adopted. He has been losing allies in recent days since returning from medical treatment in Switzerland. The remarks by Hocine Kheldoun to Ennahar television late on Thursday were another major setback Bouteflika, who hoped to pacify Algerians by promising to take steps to change the political landscape dominated by the president and the ruling elite for decades. Kheldoun, a former spokesman for the ruling party, became one of the most senior FLN officials to break with Bouteflika publicly. He said the party had to look forward and support the aims of demonstrators protesting against Bouteflika. On Friday, thousands of protesters gathered in central Algiers to keep pressing Bouteflika to step down. 'FLN goes,' some shouted amid a heavy police presence across the capital. Demonstrations have been peaceful. "Those who think we are tired are wrong. Our protests will not stop," said doctor Madjid Benzida, 37. The FLN holds the majority in all elected assemblies, including parliament and local city councils. Tens of thousands of Algerians have staged protests for weeks demanding a new era with younger leaders who would offer greater social freedoms and prosperity. Bouteflika, 82, has been in office for 20 years but rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013. The protesters say he is no longer in a fit state to rule. "GAME OVER" A former minister who is familiar with Bouteflika's inner circle told Reuters that the president could not survive given the pressure building against him. “Game over. Bouteflika has no choice but to quit now," the former minister said on condition of anonymity. More mass protests are expected on Friday in the early afternoon after prayers. Many Algerians say that the ailing president and other veterans of the 1954-1962 war of independence against France should hand over power to young technocrats who can focus on unemployment, poor services and stamping out corruption. The military, which has traditionally played a behind-the-scenes power broker role, has distanced itself from Bouteflika and stayed in its barracks throughout the crisis. It is expected to retain influence under all scenarios. Algeria was relatively untouched when the 2011 "Arab Spring" uprisings swept away veteran autocrats in the Arab world. Bouteflika and his allies, effective manipulators of the opposition, managed to avoid major unrest by spending oil money on the population. Bouteflika was credited with ending a civil war against Islamist insurgents in which tens of thousands of people were killed in the 1990s, and many Algerians long accepted the heavy-handed rule as the price of stability. But the public has turned out onto the streets angry at deteriorating economic conditions and the ruling party's failure to make the transition to a new generation of leaders despite the president's failing health.

Algeria ruling party turns its back on Bouteflika, says he is 'history'

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