The National Organization of Mujahideen, veterans of Algeria's 1954-1962 independence war against France, publicly endorsed mass protests demanding President Abdelaziz Bouteflika step down after two decades in power. The statement marked a significant shift as the group historically aligned with the ruling elite.
Bouteflika, 82, submitted candidacy papers for the April 18 election despite his public absence since a 2013 stroke. His 20-year tenure, beginning in 1999, has faced growing scrutiny over economic stagnation and political stagnation, with protesters demanding constitutional reforms.
Mass demonstrations, the largest since the 2011 Arab Spring, have exposed fractures within Bouteflika's inner circle. Some ruling FLN party officials attended protests, while public figures resigned in a country where political changes typically occur discreetly. An online call for a 'march of 20 million' this Friday presents a new challenge to the leadership.
Analysts note the military has remained neutral but could intervene if instability escalates. Younger generations, unburdened by the 1990s civil war that shaped older leaders' priorities, have grown impatient with Bouteflika's rule and economic stagnation.
