Hundreds of Algerian lawyers staged a protest in Algiers, urging the Constitutional Council to reject President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's re-election bid due to concerns over his health and eligibility.
The 82-year-old leader, who uses a wheelchair and has been largely absent from public view since a 2013 stroke, faces scrutiny over his ability to govern. Protesters argued his candidacy violates medical ethics, as no valid health certificate could be obtained.
Lawyer Ahmed Dahim, a Bar Association member, stated the Constitutional Council must reject Bouteflika's bid, calling it "inadmissible." The council must rule on candidates by March 14, as the president remains in Switzerland for unspecified medical evaluations since February 24.
A separate dispute emerged over press freedoms, with journalists protesting alleged restrictions on coverage of the protests. The medical association reiterated requirements for candidate health certifications, citing ethical standards.
A 2001 ban on protests has been repeatedly violated, with daily demonstrations in Algiers since a major rally on February 22. Bouteflika's official re-election announcement on February 10 triggered widespread unrest.
