Now the public rejection of the looming election threatens to worsen already deep divisions in the north African country. But the five candidates seeking to replace him all either supported the former leader or participated in his government, and all have been the target of the protesters’ hostility. Protesters see the candidates as accomplices to the military high command, which since Bouteflika’s resignation has assumed de facto power. – ‘Spontaneous’ rallies –Candidates speaking at the sparsely attended rallies have struggled to demonstrate their understanding of Hirak’s demands. Across the country, election posters are ripped down or painted over with pictures of full rubbish bags or imprisoned Hirak figures.

Source: The North Africa Journal November 29, 2019 15:33 UTC