Thousands of Algerians on Friday staged a street protest in the capital Algiers against the re-election bid of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.
The 81 year old leader who is confined to the wheel-chair is seeking a fifth term in April’s presidential election.
Bouteflika reportedly suffered stroke in 2013 and hardly makes public appearances. He has been in power for 20 years now.
Despite not in good health he is bent on securing another term, with opposition parties doubting whether he is fully in charge of affairs.
Some Algerians who gathered in the city centre after Friday prayers, chanted “Bye, bye Bouteflika” and “peaceful, peaceful”.
There are reports of police fearing tear gas to disperse protesters.
Protests have been taking place since last week with thousands taking to the streets demanding that Bouteflika rescinds his decision.
Bouteflika is leading a rich oil and gas-exporting country.
Protests today in Algeria against President Bouteflika are underway. pic.twitter.com/z9zF7mCwhJ
— DZ Football (@DZFootball_en) March 1, 2019
The Algerian leader isn’t the oldest president world leader though but his critics say his health condition makes it tough for him to carry out his duties.
#Algeria: After President #Bouteflika announced he was seeking a 5th term, many sounded concern regarding his health.
Over the last week, protests have broken out against the 81-year-old President.
Should the reclusive Bouteflika still be allowed to run? #WorldThisWeek pic.twitter.com/IwvXzVWppZ
— The Debate – France 24 (@F24Debate) March 1, 2019
Bouteflika’s colleague in Tunisia, Beji Caid Essebsi is 92-years-old.
And the world’s oldest elected leader is 93-year-old Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.
Source: Africafeeds.com
