Protesters call for veteran president to stand down
Algerian students demonstrate against ailing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term, in the capital Algiers, March 5 2019. Picture: RYAD KRAMDI / AFPThousands of Algerian students marched on Tuesday in protest at ailing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s determination to stand for re-election, brushing aside his pledge not to serve a full fifth term.
Rallies demanding the 82-year-old resign have rocked Algeria since February 22, with protesters mobilised by calls on social media, in a country where half the population is under 30 and many young people struggle to find jobs. “Hey Bouteflika, there won’t be a fifth term,” the students chanted in central Algiers. Onlookers applauded them and motorists blew their hooters in a show of support.
In Sunday’s message he said that his pledge not to serve a full term if re-elected “will ensure I am succeeded in undeniable conditions of serenity, freedom and transparency”.He acknowledged the mostly peaceful protests against him. “I listened and heard the cry from the hearts of protesters and in particular the thousands of young people who questioned me about the future of our homeland.”
A sign held up by protesters read: “No studies, no teaching until the system [regime] falls”, as students were reportedly considering going on strike.
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