Algerian Army Chief Warns Against Constitutional Change

Algerian army chief Ahmed Gaïd Salah has warned against attempts to change the country's constitution, saying it would lead to the destruction of the state. Speaking at the third military region in Béchar, Gaïd Salah said the army's command had made every effort to address the country's political crisis. He emphasized that the army had worked to create conditions for overcoming difficulties and serving the nation's interests.

Gaïd Salah stated that despite the crisis, the Algerian state had maintained its capacity for governance, its reputation, and its activities. He also noted that the country had preserved its relationships with foreign partners. The army chief highlighted the importance of maintaining the state's institutions within their legal and constitutional framework.

Gaïd Salah criticized those who claimed that the people's power was above the constitution. He argued that such a view would lead to the abolition of state institutions and plunge the country into chaos. The army chief emphasized that the constitution was the foundation of the state and the guarantor of the nation's identity and constants.

The army chief also denounced those who had planned to embezzle public funds. He contrasted the actions of those in the military who worked with dedication and selflessness with those who sought to exploit the system for personal gain. Gaïd Salah emphasized that the military remained committed to its duties, including protecting the country's borders and combating terrorism.

Gaïd Salah expressed confidence that the Algerian people would distinguish between those who acted with sincerity and those who harbored resentment towards the country. He stated that the people would recognize that those who were hostile to the military were, in fact, enemies of Algeria. The army chief praised the military's role in defending the nation and its people.

Gaïd Salah's comments come amid ongoing protests in Algeria, which began in February 2019. The protests led to the resignation of long-time President Abdelaziz Bouteflika. The country has struggled to achieve a peaceful transition to democracy. Gaïd Salah's speech was seen as an attempt to assert the military's influence over the country's politics.

The Algerian army has played a significant role in the country's politics since independence. Gaïd Salah's statements reflect the military's concerns about the country's stability and its desire to maintain its influence over the political process. The situation in Algeria remains uncertain, with ongoing debates about the country's future and the role of the military in politics.

Key points

• Algerian army chief Ahmed Gaïd Salah warns against attempts to change the country's constitution.
• Gaïd Salah emphasizes the importance of maintaining the state's institutions within their legal and constitutional framework.
• The army chief denounces those who had planned to embezzle public funds and praises the military's role in defending the nation and its people.