Algeria: Thousands participate in nationwide pro-government rallies November 30 /update 53

Event

Thousands of people reportedly participated in pro-government rallies organized by the General Union of Algeria Workers on Saturday, November 30. Government backers gathered in Algiers and other urban centers on Saturday in a show of support for the planned December 12 presidential election.

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.