Huge demo in Algiers against presidential elections

People in Algiers took to the streets to say no to presidential elections on 12 December.

Protesters have gathered in downtown Algiers today to denounce the government's decision to hold presidential elections on December 12.

The demonstration has been among the biggest in Algiers.

The electoral campaign is set to start on Sunday, November 17, but participants are demanding fundamental changes in political leadership before any election is held. Protesters are also denouncing alleged press censorship and have called for the release of political activists.

Political rallies and protests related to the upcoming elections are expected across Algeria in the coming days and weeks. 

The government has arrested around 10 activists and journalists since June when protests started.

During the 39th Friday action, the streets filled up despite the rain. Around 100 journalists in the capital Algeria protested the pressures and intimidation of the press by taking their places with white flags with ”free press” on them. Moreover, more than 300 journalists reacted to systematic pressures on the media with a joint statement.