Algeria’s ruling party, the National Liberation Front (FLN), has come forward in support of protestors protesting against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and calling for the transition of power in the North African country.
Last month, Bouteflika announced that he intended to stand in the election. The announcement triggered weeks of protests by the people of Algeria want Bouteflika to step down and not contest the upcoming April elections.
FLN chief Mouad Bouchareb said the government was not in the hands of the party. He said the party supports the popular movement, hinting that the FLN has distanced itself from the Bouteflika regime.
“FLN activists fully support the popular movement” by which “the people demand change through massive street marches,” Bouchareb said, reported France24.
He said Bouteflika has made it clear that he was moving towards changing the system, towards a new Algeria.
“The people spoke unequivocally and FLN activists… will work to achieve the expected goals following a clear plan,” Bouchareb said.
However, he said it is necessary to sit around a table for dialogue to ensure stability in Algeria. The FLN has been in power in Algeria since 1962. The ruling party and its allies have supported Bouteflika’s bid for a fifth term for months.
The 82 year old Algerian President has rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke five years ago. He finally bowed to the protesters’ demand last week by reversing plans to stand for a fifth term. He announced that he would stay in office until a new constitution is adopted, effectively extending his present term.
Algeria Elections 2019
Bouteflika confirmed that the government will organize a national conference to open the way for a debate to consider proposals to amend the constitution and decide the timing for early elections. He vowed that he won’t run in those elections. The national conference is expected to take place soon.
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