Algerians march anew as anger mounts at army, interim leader

Protest organisers are encouraging Algerians to come out in Algiers or other cities to show that they’re not satisfied with the departure of longtime President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, and want wholesale political change.

Anger is mounting over military chief Gen. Ahmed Gaid Salah, who was instrumental in Bouteflika’s departure but then threw his support behind interim President Abdelkader Bensalah, seen as part of the old regime.

Bensalah was named interim president this week and announced new elections for July 4. Protest appeals online call for both Bensalah and the military chief to step down.

Police are lining plazas and checking all vehicles entering Algiers.

The ailing Bouteflika finally stepped down at the age of 82 after weeks of demonstrations triggered by his bid for a fifth term in office.

After two decades in power, he had lost the backing of key supporters including the armed forces chief.

Follow us on Twitter: @The_NewArab