The North Africa Journal – January 24, 2019: President Abdelaziz Bouteflika has convened the electoral committee last week, hence ruling out the postponement of the presidential election of 18 April 2019. Members of the opposition had tried to push a postponement, in order to discuss a “national consensus” before the election. Algeria now has an official presidential election date, but uncertainty remains. Although some big names decided to compete for the post, including retired Major-General Ali Ghediri and former Prime Minister Ali Benflis, the lack of pronouncement from President Bouteflika is maintaining the state of status quo and ambiguity. Meanwhile, as soon as the electoral body was convened for the presidential election on Thursday, 18 April, the Ministry of the Interior witnessed an uptick of activity with dozens of potential candidates withdrawing papers and forms needed to apply for candidacy.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 24, 2019 17:26 UTC