Algerian opposition parties and personalities gathered in Algiers under the banner "Forces of Change in Favor of the People's Choice" have expressed their rejection of any decisions made by the presidency. They also voiced their support for the application of articles 7, 8 and 102 of the Constitution, a proposal put forth by the Algerian People's National Army (ANP). The group, comprising parties such as Talaie El Houriyette and Front de la Justice et du Développement, emphasized their stance through a communiqué.
The opposition parties and personalities, including Ali Benflis and Abdallah Djaballah, rejected any decisions or statements issued in the name of the President or the presidency. This includes the appointment of the latest government, which was formed on March 31, 2019. They expressed their satisfaction with the Algerian people's demonstrated level of awareness in adopting the ANP's proposal and emphasizing that the people are the source of all power.
The group welcomed the popular slogan "Djeich chaâb, khawa khawa" (army and people are brothers), viewing it as a message of solidarity with the ANP and an affirmation of their support for the army's roadmap to resolve the crisis. They also rejected any initiatives that would grant the right to manage the transition period to "illegitimate forces" and denounced calls for foreign interference.
In their communiqué, the opposition parties and personalities urged prosecutors to activate mechanisms to combat corruption without distinction. They also announced their support for the initiative of magistrates to open corruption dossiers. This move is seen as an effort to address one of the key issues that have fueled protests in the country.
The development comes after President Abdelaziz Bouteflika announced his intention to resign before April 28, 2019, the end of his electoral term. In a communiqué from the presidency, Bouteflika stated that he would take important measures to ensure the continuity of state institutions during the transition period. The appointment of a new government on March 31, 2019, was seen as part of these efforts.
Bouteflika's decision to resign was seen as a response to mounting pressure from protesters who have been calling for his departure. The president has been facing criticism for his handling of the economy and allegations of corruption. The opposition parties' support for the ANP's proposal is seen as a significant development in the country's efforts to address its current crisis.
The situation in Algeria remains fluid, with the country yet to determine the specifics of the transition period. The opposition parties' rejection of any decisions from the presidency and their support for the ANP's proposal suggest that they will play a significant role in shaping the country's future. The international community is closely watching the developments in Algeria, given the country's strategic importance in the region.
Key points
- Algerian opposition parties reject decisions from presidency, support army's call to apply articles 7, 8 and 102 of the Constitution.