Algerian President Abdelkader Bensalah announced on December 10 that the presidential election will be held on December 12. In a televised address to the nation, Bensalah stated that he had signed a decree convening the electoral body earlier that day. The election is seen as a strategic goal, with Bensalah urging citizens to participate and make the event a success.

Bensalah emphasized the significance of the election, saying it will allow the Algerian people to elect a new president with full legitimacy. He encouraged citizens to take part in what he described as the writing of their country's history and the choice of their new president. The election is expected to mark a new chapter in Algeria's democratic process.

The president also highlighted his efforts to engage with political parties and civil society to launch a dialogue aimed at achieving the presidential election. He noted that two organic laws related to the Independent National Electoral Authority and the electoral regime have been modified and adopted by parliament. These laws introduce significant changes to Algeria's electoral system.

Bensalah stressed that the revised laws are in line with the constitution and address concerns about the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. He dismissed doubts about the state's commitment to organizing free and transparent elections. The changes aim to allow Algerians to choose their leader in a sovereign, free, and transparent manner.

The president praised the military for preserving the constitutional path during the crisis that began on February 22. He acknowledged the close coordination between state institutions and expressed gratitude to the military for its efforts to support the democratic process. Bensalah sees the election as the only viable democratic solution to the country's crisis.

In his address, Bensalah called on citizens to mobilize and make the election a success. He believes the event will mark a turning point in Algeria's history and pave the way for a promising future. The president's speech was broadcast on national television channels.

The election is expected to be a significant step towards consolidating democracy in Algeria. Bensalah's government has faced challenges in recent months, but the president remains committed to organizing the election as a way to address the country's crisis. The international community is watching closely as Algeria navigates this critical period.

Key points

  • The presidential election will take place on December 12.
  • President Bensalah has signed a decree convening the electoral body.
  • The election is seen as a strategic goal for Algeria's democratic process.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.