Leaders must keep their fingers on the popular pulse

I write in reference to your article Algeria’s Abdelaziz Bouteflika will not run for fifth

term, says presidency (March 11). Leaders must keep their fingers on the pulse of the people, and make genuine attempts to understand their concerns and motivations. I often wonder why people cling to power, knowing very well that it will not last forever. Why not instead do something worthwhile that will help the country and its people in the long term, instead of ossifying in power? Name withheld by request