Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's potential prolongation of his term has hit a roadblock, according to the ruling National Liberation Front (FLN) party's spokesperson, Hocine Khaldoune. In a recent media appearance, Khaldoune stated that prolonging Bouteflika's term is not feasible without a consensus. He emphasized that the party is waiting for the National Conference to define the situation and make proposals, but now it seems impossible for the conference to do so.
Khaldoune expressed skepticism about the usefulness of the National Conference, which was announced by Bouteflika as part of his roadmap on March 11. He stated that he sees no utility in the conference and that the FLN will reevaluate its stance on the matter. According to Khaldoune, the conference will not be productive, as there is no clear understanding of who will participate and how they will be chosen.
The issue of representation is a major concern for Khaldoune, who pointed out that Algeria has 1,500 communes, and there is no consensus on how to ensure representativeness. He argued that the conference poses a significant problem in terms of who will represent whom. As a result, Khaldoune believes that the conference has been overtaken by events, and no one agrees to its implementation.
Instead of the National Conference, Khaldoune proposed holding a presidential election as soon as possible. He suggested that this could be achieved by establishing a law, setting up a commission to prepare for the election, amending the electoral law, and forming a national unity government tasked with organizing the election. According to Khaldoune, the new president elected would have the authority to issue a new roadmap.
However, Khaldoune's statements were quickly corrected by Mouad Bouchareb, the coordinator of the FLN's governing body. Bouchareb stated that Khaldoune did not accurately represent the FLN's position, and that the party remains committed to Bouteflika's roadmap, including the National Conference. Bouchareb emphasized the importance of the conference in resolving the country's crisis.
The FLN's position on the National Conference seems to be at odds with Khaldoune's comments, which were widely reported in the media. Bouchareb's intervention aimed to clarify the party's stance and distance it from Khaldoune's remarks. The confusion highlights the challenges facing the FLN and the Algerian government in addressing the country's pressing issues.
The situation remains uncertain, with different voices emerging from within the ruling party. While Khaldoune's comments suggested a potential shift in the FLN's position, Bouchareb's intervention underscored the party's commitment to Bouteflika's roadmap. The outcome of the National Conference and the future of Bouteflika's term remain unclear, as Algeria navigates a complex and rapidly evolving situation.
Key points
- FLN spokesperson Hocine Khaldoune questions the usefulness of the National Conference
- Khaldoune proposes holding a presidential election as an alternative
- The FLN party reaffirms its commitment to Bouteflika's roadmap, including the National Conference
