On April 2, 2019, General Ahmed Gaïd Salah, Vice-Minister of National Defense and Chief of Staff of the Algerian People's Army, chaired a meeting with senior military officials to discuss the country's ongoing crisis. The meeting was held at the Army's headquarters and aimed to follow up on the army's proposal to implement articles 7, 8, and 102 of the constitution. This move is seen as a potential solution to the crisis that has been ongoing since mass protests began in February.
General Gaïd Salah emphasized that the army has been working to find a solution to the crisis since its inception, with a focus on resolving the issue within a constitutional framework. He noted that the army has been following the peaceful protests, during which the Algerian people have expressed legitimate demands, and has expressed its support for these demands. The general also praised the Algerian people's civilized behavior and high level of awareness and maturity during the protests.
The army's proposal to implement articles 7, 8, and 102 of the constitution has been met with approval from the Algerian people, who see it as a sign of hope for resolving the crisis. However, General Gaïd Salah criticized certain individuals who are working to perpetuate the crisis and protect their personal interests, rather than prioritizing the interests of the people and the country. He also accused these individuals of attempting to destabilize the country and undermine the army's efforts.
General Gaïd Salah also addressed the issue of widespread corruption and embezzlement in the country, highlighting the need for accountability and justice. He noted that certain individuals have amassed significant wealth through illicit means, often with connections to suspicious decision-making centers. The general emphasized that the army is committed to protecting the people and ensuring that those responsible for corruption are held accountable.
In response to a recent communiqué attributed to the President of the Republic, General Gaïd Salah stated that any decisions taken outside of the constitutional framework are considered null and void. He also warned against attempts to undermine the army's efforts and the country's stability, highlighting the need for a solution that is grounded in the constitution.
The general also revealed that clandestine meetings have been held to plot against the people's demands and adopt pseudo-solutions outside of the constitutional framework. He emphasized that these efforts are aimed at exacerbating the situation and making it more complicated, often in coordination with non-constitutional entities. Some parties involved in these meetings have attempted to deny their involvement, despite irrefutable evidence.
General Gaïd Salah concluded by highlighting the army's ongoing efforts to build a strong, modern, and professional military, with a focus on protecting the country and its people. The army's proposal to implement articles 7, 8, and 102 of the constitution remains a key aspect of its strategy for resolving the crisis and promoting stability in Algeria.
Key points
- The Algerian army has proposed implementing articles 7, 8, and 102 of the constitution to resolve the country's ongoing crisis.
- General Ahmed Gaïd Salah has accused certain individuals of attempting to perpetuate the crisis and protect their personal interests.
- The army's efforts aim to promote stability and accountability in Algeria, with a focus on protecting the country's people and constitution.
