The National Liberation Front (FLN) of Algeria held a massive rally at the Coupole in Algiers, where it officially announced its support for Abdelaziz Bouteflika as its candidate in the presidential election on April 18. The event drew thousands of FLN militants, supporters, officials, and elected representatives, marking the beginning of Bouteflika's pre-campaign. The rally was held under the slogan "Abdelaziz Dyalna," showcasing the party's unity.
The FLN's decision to back Bouteflika was announced by Moad Bouchareb, coordinator of the party's leading body. Bouchareb stated that the party's choice of Bouteflika was driven by a deep conviction in his abilities and recognition of his past achievements. He emphasized that the party's goal is to ensure national stability and continue the country's development. Bouchareb described the day as "historic" and reiterated the FLN's support for Bouteflika.
Bouchareb highlighted Bouteflika's contributions to Algeria, including his role in the country's liberation war and his subsequent achievements in various sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and industry. He praised Bouteflika for his efforts in promoting national reconciliation, which has brought security, stability, and serenity to the country. Bouchareb also noted Bouteflika's initiatives to diversify the economy and promote national identity.
The rally saw the presence of several notable FLN leaders, including Abdelmalek Sellal, director of Bouteflika's campaign, and former Secretary-General, Ould Abbès. The event marked a significant display of unity within the party, with many leaders who had previously been at odds coming together to support Bouteflika's candidacy. The FLN's backing of Bouteflika is seen as a significant development in the run-up to the presidential election.
Bouchareb called on FLN militants to mobilize and conduct a strong campaign in support of Bouteflika's candidacy. He expressed confidence in the party's ability to secure a victory for Bouteflika and promised that the party would hold a congress after the election to discuss its future. The FLN's support for Bouteflika is widely seen as a major boost to his campaign.
The presidential election is scheduled to take place on April 18, and Bouteflika's candidacy has been widely anticipated. The FLN's official backing is expected to significantly enhance his chances of winning a new term in office. Bouteflika has been president of Algeria since 1999 and has been a dominant figure in Algerian politics for over two decades.
The FLN's decision to support Bouteflika reflects the party's confidence in his leadership and its desire to continue his policies. The party's support for Bouteflika is also seen as a reflection of his enduring popularity in Algeria. The election campaign is expected to be closely watched, with several candidates vying for the presidency.
Key points
- The FLN has officially designated Abdelaziz Bouteflika as its candidate for the presidential election on April 18.
- The party's decision to back Bouteflika was driven by a deep conviction in his abilities and recognition of his past achievements.
- The FLN's support for Bouteflika is widely seen as a major boost to his campaign and a reflection of his enduring popularity in Algeria.