Algerian election campaign marked by social pledges and claims of unfair play
Algeria’s presidential election, set for 7 September, is drawing scrutiny for both the policies at play and a lack of competition. Some 24 million voters will choose from three candidates, including incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The narrow field has led to allegations of undemocratic practices, with opposition figures claiming the system is rigged to favour the status quo.
President of the National Independent Authority for Elections (ANIE), Mohamed Charfi, highlighted the "positive dynamic of registrations" as he expressed hopes of a high turnout for the vote.
However, the lack of choice has cast a shadow following the rejection of 13 potential candidates.
Only two candidates were approved to challenge Tebboune: Abdelaali Hassani of the moderate Islamist party, the Movement of Society for Peace (MSP), and Youcef Aouchiche of the centre-left Socialist Forces Front (FFS).
Local media reports that Hassani kicked off his campaign in the capital, Algiers, under the slogan “Opportunity,” while Aouchiche launched his in the popular Bab El Oued district with the slogan “Vision for Tomorrow”.
'Neutralising' opposition?
The thirteen other hopefuls, however, failed to secure the required number of signatures to enter the race, a barrier that many argue is symptomatic of a broader effort to "neutralise the opposition".
They include a potential 100 percent increase in salaries by 2027 and a continuation of efforts to reduce inflation – which he said had already fallen from 11 to 6 percent.
Algeria's presidential election campaign continues until 3 September.
Read more on RFI English
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