This archive report was first published on 6 July 2019.
Algerian opposition groups have been pushing for a complete overhaul of the country's political class, following the resignation of long-time leader Abdelaziz Bouteflika in April.
At a meeting of political parties and civil society representatives, the National Forum for Dialogue proposed holding free and pluralistic elections within six months.
The meeting, chaired by former minister Abdelaziz Rahabi, was held outside the orbit of the presidency, which had called for a national dialogue earlier in the week.
Interim president Abdelkader Bensalah had promised that the state and army would remain neutral in the dialogue, but the opposition groups were not satisfied with this offer.
As a result, the opposition groups are pushing for the creation of a body to prepare for the polls, composed of figures chosen by the parties of dialogue, excluding symbols of the former political regime.
Meanwhile, an already delayed presidential election set for July 4 has been postponed after the only two potential runners had their candidacies rejected.
