Algeria: Thousands participate in nationwide anti-government protests November 29 /update 52

Event

Thousands of protesters participated in nationwide anti-government protests on Friday, November 29, marking the 41st consecutive week of demonstrations. Protesters gathered in Algiers and other urban centers on Friday to denounce the planned December 12 presidential election. At least 25 protesters were arrested in Algiers on Friday morning (local time). A heavy police presence was reported in Algiers, with police reportedly using tear gas to disperse protesters. A labor union has planned a pro-government protest in Algiers on Saturday, November 30.

Additional, nationwide protests and political rallies are to be expected throughout the campaign period amid heightened tensions in the country. A heightened security presence and associated disruptions to transportation, business, and internet service are likely around large protests. Clashes between rival political supporters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

On September 15, Interim President Abdelkader Bensalah announced that presidential elections would be held on December 12, following months of political tensions in Algeria sparked by former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's intention to run for a fifth term. An interim government was approved on March 31, though protesters have continued to hold demonstrations. Presidential elections previously set for July 4 were called off by the Algerian Constitutional Council after the only two candidates were rejected.

Advice

Individuals in Algiers and across Algeria are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate a heightened security presence and localized disruptions to business and transportation around protest sites.