In Algeria, thousands of demonstrators have again called for political change for their country. “Down with the military state”, they chanted yesterday in the center of the capital Algiers. They also accused President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and other politicians in slogans of having plundered the country. The demonstrators consider the leadership to be corrupt and see it as a continuation of the old system that ruled Algeria for more than 20 years. Protests also broke out in other regions of the country.
For several weeks now, thousands of people have been demonstrating for political reforms. Two years ago there were mass protests in the North African country that ultimately led to the overthrow of long-term ruler Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Tebboune was elected as his successor as head of state in December 2019.
In order to gain confidence in his government apparatus, Tebboune announced the dissolution of parliament and a new election two weeks ago. However, the demonstrators do not see their demands being met. Tebboune also reshuffled the government and ordered the release of detained activists.
UN warns of worsening human rights situation
Meanwhile, the UN warned of a deterioration in the human rights situation in Algeria. „There have been numerous cases across the country where security forces have used unnecessary or excessive force and arbitrary arrests to suppress peaceful demonstrations,“ a UN spokesman said in Geneva today. Hundreds of people have been arrested since the protests began in mid-February. Journalists have also been arrested for reporting on the demonstrations and several independent online media have been blocked. Several activists faced long prison terms. According to the UN, there are also allegations of torture and sexual violence in detention.
