Algeria after President Tebboune’s overwhelming election victory

Outlet: Arab News

Language: English

Abstract: In an election marked by apathy and disillusionment, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune secured a sweeping 94% of the vote in Algeria, despite a turnout of less than 25% of eligible voters. This stark contrast between voter participation and the decisive result underscores growing skepticism about the legitimacy of Algeria’s democratic process. Tebboune’s reelection comes amid ongoing economic struggles, including high living costs, droughts, and wildfires, as well as a politically tense atmosphere exacerbated by the legacy of the 2019 Hirak protests that ousted his predecessor. While the president’s first term attempted to ease public discontent through social benefits funded by hydrocarbon revenues, his administration failed to address deeper structural issues.

Tebboune’s second term presents significant challenges, including the need to diversify an economy heavily reliant on oil and gas, and managing geopolitical tensions, such as the rising military entente between Morocco and Israel. The increased visibility of Algeria’s military and its growing influence in civilian affairs further complicates Tebboune’s path, risking a deeper erosion of democratic engagement and civil liberties. The militarization of governance, coupled with legal reforms that stifle dissent, could inflame public frustration, especially in a country with a history of civil unrest. Ultimately, Tebboune must find a way to balance military influence with genuine political reforms, while addressing the nation’s pressing economic and social needs, to avoid further destabilizing Algeria’s fragile political landscape.

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