Algerian businessman Rachid Nekkaz faced arrest at Switzerland's University Hospitals of Geneva (HUG) after attempting to access President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who is receiving medical care there. Nekkaz, a candidate in Algeria's upcoming elections, claimed he sought information about the 82-year-old leader's condition.
The protest unfolded outside HUG, where Nekkaz and supporters gathered before he entered the facility. Hospital authorities reported trespassing and resistance charges, leading to his detention. Police confirmed he would be held overnight and appear before a prosecutor on Saturday.
Bouteflika, who has led Algeria since 1999, has been largely absent from public view since a 2013 stroke. His push for a fourth term in the April 18 election has fueled nationwide protests, with demonstrators demanding he step down. On Friday, thousands marched across Algeria chanting "No fifth term -- hey, Bouteflika!" while waving national flags.
Nekkaz alleged the president is deceased, claiming powerful figures in Algeria maintain the illusion of his vitality to preserve control. "The entire world, and all of Algeria knows he is no longer of this world," he stated to reporters. His claims coincided with reports of heightened security at HUG, including police presence and discussions among staff about the president's location on the hospital's VIP floor.
Bouteflika's campaign manager dismissed concerns about his health, stating medical evaluations in Switzerland were nearing completion. Nekkaz, barred from running due to a nationality law, instead endorsed his cousin as a candidate in a bid to challenge the president through unconventional means. Algeria's constitutional committee will assess candidacy validity on March 13.
