Thousands denounce Bouteflika’s power grasp

TENS of thousands of Algerians marched yesterday to denounce President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s plan to seek a fifth term in power in the biggest protest in the capital for eight years.

The gathering, like other demonstrations around the country, was mostly peaceful, but the police fired tear gas at one occasion to try to disperse demonstrators assembling in Algiers after Friday prayers.

Chanting “bye, bye Bouteflika”, “peaceful, peaceful” and some carrying roses, the crowd vented their frustration at a plan by the 81-year-old leader to extend his 20-year rule in elections next month.

Within an hour of starting, the protest quickly drew tens of thousands, including young people, families and some elderly, the largest gathering since 2011 “Arab Spring” demonstrations.

“Look at the Algerian youth, all it is demanding is a valid president who can talk to the people,” said Hamdane Salim, a 45-year-old public sector worker.

“People want to overthrow the regime,” some protesters chanted, using a slogan from the 2011 “Arab spring” turmoil which toppled leaders in Egypt, Libya and Tunisia.

Among the crowd was Djamila Bouhired, 83, a heroine of the 1954-1962 independence war against France, who said: “I’m happy to be here.”

Bouteflika, who has ruled since 1999, suffered a stroke in 2013, has been seen in public only a few times.

According to Bouteflika’s opponents, there is no evidence he is fit enough to lead the country and that it is being ruled in his name by advisers.

The authorities said he retained a firm grip on public affairs despite the rarity of his appearances. |