Algerians demand Bouteflika quits in biggest protest yet
ALGIERS, (Reuters) - Hundreds of thousands of people protested in central Algiers yesterday 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.