Algerian army chief Ahmed Gaïd Salah has delivered a new speech, calling for national unity and emphasizing the military's commitment to serving the nation and its people. Speaking at the Cherchell Military Academy, Gaïd Salah stated that the Algerian People's National Army (ANP) has no political ambitions and is dedicated to supporting the country through its current crisis. He emphasized the ANP's devotion to Algeria and its people, saying that the army is extending a "solidarity hand" to the nation.
Gaïd Salah reiterated that the ANP's primary objective is to serve the country and accompany the people in a sincere and conscious manner. He expressed the military's commitment to helping Algeria overcome its crisis and achieve constitutional legitimacy. The army chief also urged the people to have a deep understanding of the relationship between the nation and its military, emphasizing the importance of trust and cooperation.
In his speech, Gaïd Salah criticized those who he claims are waging "abject and recurrent campaigns" against the ANP's command. He described these efforts as "sterile" and without any results. The army chief also called on the people to adopt a "November-like" approach, which implies a commitment to the values and principles of Algeria's independence movement.
Gaïd Salah emphasized the military's resolve to support the judiciary and ensure its independence. He stated that the ANP is committed to assisting the justice system in recovering its reputation, in accordance with the laws in force. This, he said, will enable the judiciary to exercise its missions freely and without any constraints or pressure.
The army chief once again rejected the idea of a transition period, reiterating his commitment to a constitutional solution to the country's crisis. He emphasized that the ANP will remain vigilant and committed to its nationalist line of conduct, with the goal of ensuring the election of a new president within the constitutional deadlines.
Gaïd Salah's speech comes at a time when Algeria is facing significant challenges, including a severe economic crisis and widespread protests. The country has been without a president since Abdelaziz Bouteflika stepped down in April, and the situation remains uncertain. The ANP's role in the country's transition has been a subject of debate, with some calling for a more prominent role for the military.
The Algerian people's response to Gaïd Salah's speech remains to be seen. However, the army chief's words are likely to be closely watched by the nation's citizens, who are eager for a resolution to the country's crisis. The ANP's commitment to serving the nation and its people will be put to the test in the coming weeks and months, as Algeria navigates its complex transition.
Key points
- Algerian army chief Ahmed Gaïd Salah emphasizes military's commitment to serving the nation and people.
- Gaïd Salah rejects idea of transition period, reiterating commitment to constitutional solution.
- Army chief criticizes those waging "abject and recurrent campaigns" against ANP's command.
