Thousands of citizens took to the streets of Béjaïa, Algeria, on Friday, marking the 17th consecutive week of protests that began on February 22. The demonstrations, which coincided with the 18th anniversary of the historic June 14, 2001 Kabyle march, saw participants paying tribute to the victims of the "Black Spring" and reiterating their demands for a transition to democracy. Protesters carried Algerian and Berber flags, and chanted slogans such as "Ulac Smah Ulah".
The June 14, 2001 march, which drew over a million Kabyles to Algiers, was a pivotal moment in Algerian history, as citizens protested against bloody repression in Kabylie and demanded satisfaction of their rights. On Friday, protesters in Béjaïa honored the 128 martyrs of the Black Spring with a minute of silence. The march, which began at the Taos Amrouche cultural center and ended in the old city of Béjaïa, featured traditional Kabyle songs and chants.
Despite the arrest and detention of former Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia and Abdelmalek Sellal, two prominent figures from the Bouteflika era, the protests showed no signs of weakening. The two men were taken into custody the day before the 17th Friday of demonstrations. Protesters continued to voice their rejection of the current power structure and call for a democratic transition.
The protesters in Béjaïa expressed their determination to achieve their goals, including the departure of the current system and the establishment of a state based on the rule of law. They also reiterated their opposition to the roadmap proposed by those in power, which they believe does not address their demands.
The demonstrations in Béjaïa were marked by a strong sense of solidarity and unity among the protesters, who waved flags and banners, including one that read "14 June 2001, 14 June 2019, same struggle". The protesters' slogans and chants reflected their commitment to achieving their objectives and creating a more just and democratic society.
According to reports, the protests in Béjaïa were peaceful, with no major incidents or clashes reported between protesters and security forces. The continued mobilization of citizens in Béjaïa and other parts of Algeria has raised concerns about the government's response to the protests and the potential for further escalation.
The protests in Algeria, which began in February, have been marked by widespread participation and a strong sense of determination among citizens. The continued demonstrations in Béjaïa and other cities reflect the protesters' commitment to achieving their goals and creating a more democratic and just society.
Key points
- Algerian protesters mark 18th anniversary of 2001 Kabyle march
- Thousands rally in Béjaïa for 17th consecutive Friday
- Protesters reject government roadmap, call for democratic transition
