For the 34th consecutive Friday, thousands of Algerians took to the streets of Bouira in a peaceful protest against the country's current political situation. The demonstrators gathered in the old town's placette after Friday prayers, carrying the Amazigh flag, the national emblem, and various banners. They chanted slogans such as "Civil state, not military," "Free Algeria, free the detainees," and "No elections with the gang."
The protesters demanded a "real democratic change" and called for the release of all political detainees. They carried photos of young detainees imprisoned in Algiers during previous marches, as well as posters of prominent figures such as Bouregaa, Karim Tabou, and Boumala, who are still in detention. One protester, a elderly man, expressed his outrage, stating that the current government's legitimacy is questionable given their past support for former President Bouteflika.
The protesters also targeted the government's plans for a new hydrocarbons law and the upcoming finance bill. They chanted slogans such as "No to the sell-out of Algeria's wealth" and "The people want independence." Some protesters held a giant banner with photos of detainees from the Haïzer region, including Akli Akbi, Hamza Karoune, and Massinissa Aissous. Activists from the RAJ movement demanded the release of their president, Abdelouahab Fersaoui, who was arrested the previous day.
The police presence was notable, with officers stationed in front of the local security headquarters. However, the protest remained largely peaceful, with some minor verbal exchanges between protesters and motorists who drove through the area. One protester warned against responding to provocations, urging his fellow demonstrators to remain united.
The protesters reiterated their demands for a democratic transition and the implementation of articles 7 and 8 of the Algerian Constitution. They also expressed their opposition to the current government's plans for a new hydrocarbons law, which they believe will lead to the exploitation of Algeria's natural resources by foreign companies.
The protest in Bouira was part of a larger wave of demonstrations that have taken place across Algeria in recent months. The protesters' slogans and banners reflected their desire for a more democratic and transparent government, as well as their opposition to the current electoral calendar. The government's response to the protests remains unclear.
The protests are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with many Algerians calling for a national dialogue to address the country's pressing issues. The situation remains uncertain, with many stakeholders watching closely to see how the government will respond to the protesters' demands.
Key points
- The protesters are demanding a "real democratic change" and the release of all political detainees.
- The government is planning to introduce a new hydrocarbons law, which has sparked opposition from protesters.
- The protests are part of a larger wave of demonstrations that have taken place across Algeria in recent months.
