Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria, on Friday, marking the 31st consecutive week of protests. The demonstration, which began at the Mouloud-Mammeri University, drew participants from all 67 communes in the wilaya. The crowd, comprising people of all ages, marched through the city's main streets, including the Boulevard Lamali Ahmed and Boulevard Abane Ramdane. The protest was characterized by a festive atmosphere and a strong sense of determination.
The protesters, who were met with a significant police presence, chanted slogans rejecting the upcoming presidential election scheduled for December 12. They demanded the departure of all symbols of the old system, arguing that a new election would only perpetuate the same system under a different guise. The protesters also called for a transitional period, which has been a key demand for several weeks. The demonstration was peaceful, with no reported incidents.
The protesters also demanded the release of detained activists, including those accused of carrying the Amazigh flag, as well as prominent figures such as Karim Tabbou, Samir Benlarbi, and Fodhil Boumala. The moudjahid Lakhdar Bouregâa, who is currently in prison, was not forgotten by the protesters, who carried large banners with his portrait and called for his release.
The number of protesters in Tizi-Ouzou has been increasing steadily over the past few weeks, with many more people joining the demonstration on Friday. The protesters marched through the city, eventually dispersing peacefully at the Matoub Lounès intersection, near the old bus station. The demonstration was marked by a strong sense of solidarity and determination among the participants.
According to eyewitnesses, the protesters were a diverse group, comprising people of all ages, including children, teenagers, and elderly individuals. The demonstration was characterized by a strong sense of organization, with protesters marching in an orderly fashion and following a predetermined route.
The protests in Tizi-Ouzou are part of a larger movement that has been sweeping Algeria for several months. The protesters are demanding significant changes to the country's political system, including the departure of long-time President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and the establishment of a new, more democratic system.
The protests in Tizi-Ouzou and other Algerian cities have been marked by a strong sense of determination and solidarity among the participants. Despite the challenges and risks involved, the protesters remain committed to their demands, and the movement shows no signs of weakening. The government has responded to the protests with a mix of repression and concessions, but the protesters remain resolute in their demands for change.
Key points
- The protesters in Tizi-Ouzou are demanding the release of detained activists and a transitional period before the presidential election.
- The demonstration in Tizi-Ouzou was peaceful, with no reported incidents.
- The protesters are calling for significant changes to Algeria's political system, including the departure of long-time President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.
