Thousands of Algerian students staged protests across the country, rejecting President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's decision to seek re-election despite his promise not to serve a full fifth term. The demonstrations, marked by chants and public defiance, underscored widespread frustration with the 82-year-old leader's prolonged tenure.
Bouteflika, who suffered a stroke in 2013 and has been largely absent from public life, submitted his candidacy for the April 18 election. His campaign manager delivered the formal application while the president remained in Switzerland for medical evaluations. The move reignited mass protests that have persisted since February 22, driven by youth discontent over unemployment and political stagnation.
Protesters, many carrying Algerian flags, rejected Bouteflika's recent pledge to convene a national conference if re-elected, calling it a hollow gesture. A 21-year-old student stated, "He wants an extra year in power. We don't want him to stay even an extra second." Demonstrations in Algiers, Oran, Constantine, and Annaba saw thousands of participants, with some openly challenging security forces.
The European Commission reiterated its stance on democratic principles, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression and rule of law in Algeria. A spokesperson noted, "The right to freedom of assembly is enshrined in the Algerian constitution. We expect these rights to be exercised peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law." Despite a 2001 ban on public protests in the capital, students continued their demonstrations, signaling growing resistance to Bouteflika's leadership.
