‘Time is running out’ for political transition in Algeria

Algeria’s army chief said all options were being considered to resolve a national political crisis but that “time is running out” after weeks of protests ended the two-decade rule of Abdelaziz Bouteflika.

Lt Gen Ahmed Gaed Salah’s remarks were the strongest indication yet that the military – which said it supported a transition period after the April 2 resignation of Mr Bouteflika – is losing patience.

Lt Gen Salah urged protesters who have been gathering since February 22 to avoid violence.

Recent mass demonstrations have descended into scuffles with officers who responded with teargas and water cannon.

“All options are open in the pursuit of overcoming the different difficulties and finding a solution to the crisis as soon as possible, in a way that serves our nation’s interests without regard to individual interests,” Lt Gen Salah said.

He did not specify what measures the army could take, but said “we have no ambition but to protect our nation”.

The army patiently monitored the mostly peaceful protests that sometimes swelled to hundreds of thousands of people.

But Lt Gen Salah intervened when Mr Bouteflika sought to extend his fourth term, declaring him unfit for office.

Parliament named an interim president and a July 4 election date was set in a transition the army said it would support.

Mr Bouteflika’s departure failed to placate many Algerians who want to topple the old guard and its associates.

Protesters want a clean break with the ruling elite – veterans of the war of independence against France, the ruling party and oligarchs – and sweeping democratic reforms.