Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria, for the 19th consecutive Friday, undeterred by the sweltering heat and recent developments in the country's politics. The protesters, comprising men, women, and children, took to the streets shortly after Friday prayers, chanting slogans such as "System, get out!", "Bedoui, get out!", and "Gaïd, get out!".
The protesters also voiced their rejection of any allegiance to the United Arab Emirates and foreign interference, particularly from Paris. The procession, marked by the Algerian and Berber flags, covered the usual route from the Hasnaoua University campus to the Bougie Square. The demonstrators reiterated their demands for a free and democratic Algeria, with chants of "Algérie libre et démocratique" and "Oui à la justice ! Non aux règlements de compte".
The protest saw the participation of the Matoub Lounès Foundation, which marched in solidarity with the popular movement, seeking truth about the assassination of its founder. The foundation's members, led by Malika Matoub, carried portraits of Matoub with the inscription "Tidhets !" (Truth!). This was not the first time Matoub's portraits appeared in the protests, as they have been a constant feature of demonstrations in Kabylie.
The 19th consecutive protest in Tizi-Ouzou was marked by a strong show of unity, with protesters reiterating their demands for the departure of the current political system. The march, which began shortly after Friday prayers, proceeded peacefully, with participants chanting slogans and waving flags. The protesters' determination was evident, despite the extreme heat and the fact that the protest had been ongoing for 19 weeks.
The Algerian government's efforts to address the protesters' concerns have yet to yield results, with the demonstrators continuing to demand a complete overhaul of the current system. The protests, which began several months ago, have been sparked by widespread discontent with the government's handling of the economy, corruption, and social issues.
The Matoub Lounès Foundation's participation in the protest highlights the growing involvement of civil society groups in the movement. The foundation's demand for truth about Matoub's assassination adds another layer of complexity to the protests, which have become a rallying cry for those seeking change in Algeria.
The protest ended peacefully, with participants dispersing calmly after 3 pm, despite the intense heat. The 19th consecutive protest in Tizi-Ouzou demonstrates the determination of the Algerian people to push for change, with thousands taking to the streets to demand a new political system.
Key points
- The protesters in Tizi-Ouzou are demanding the departure of the current political system, including key figures such as Bedoui and Gaïd.
