Algerian political parties are continuing their efforts to prepare electoral lists for the upcoming local elections on November 28. The process is not without its challenges, with parties struggling to convince activists to run and complete their lists. Despite measures introduced by the National Independent Electoral Authority to encourage wider participation, including allowing lists that fail to meet the one-third female representation requirement.
According to Said Nefissi, deputy head of the National Building Movement, party officials are working closely with local authorities to prepare lists. However, he noted that there are significant disparities between regions and municipalities, partly due to the procedures introduced for the legislative elections. Some individuals are hesitant to run due to fears of being disqualified, while others refuse to participate.
Nefissi explained that smaller municipalities, with populations of less than 1,000, face difficulties in meeting certain requirements, such as the proportion of university graduates or individuals under 40. He stressed that this is a common challenge for all parties and that the process is progressing at a "reassuring pace" to achieve their goals.
Ahmed Sadok, deputy head of the Movement for a Peaceful Society, said that his party has started preparing its lists, but the process is proving difficult due to the new law and the context of the local elections following the previous legislative elections. He cited instances of "unjustified exclusions" in the past, which have led to reluctance among citizens and activists to participate.
Sadok noted that the local elections lack significant incentives and attractiveness, leading many to prefer to distance themselves from the electoral process. He warned that some parties may not submit lists in certain areas, highlighting the challenges faced by all parties in preparing for the elections.
Despite these challenges, Sadok emphasized that the Movement for a Peaceful Society is working hard to have a presence in a significant number of municipalities and provinces. He acknowledged that the environment is "very difficult" but expressed determination to overcome these obstacles.
The local elections are seen as a crucial test for Algerian parties, which are struggling to regain the trust of citizens after a series of controversies and exclusions in previous elections. The parties' ability to prepare lists and engage citizens in the electoral process will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
Key points
- Algerian parties face significant challenges in preparing for local elections due to a new law and the context of the elections following previous controversies.
