The Succession Crisis In Algeria
The article analyzes the internal situation in the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria on the eve of the presidential elections scheduled for April 18, 2019. After the long fluctuations of the ruling elite, the candidacy of the 93-year-old President Abdelaziz Bouteflika was nominated for the fifth time. This decision demonstrates the insurmountable political conflicts in the Algerian elites resulting from the failure to decide who has the right to decide on a successor. The succession crisis cannot be resolved without the approval of the two institutions that form the Algerian state: the presidential environment and the army. The power struggle between the two groups goes beyond the old political system created half a century ago. In light of the difficult situation faced by Algeria in the economic and political spheres and in terms of regional security, the extension of the reign of Bouteflika for a fifth term will serve as a likely catalyst of much greater instability than the one faced by his regime at the present time. The future of the country urgently requires rejuvenation of elites, modernization and diversification of the economy, openness in the political sphere. Most institutionalized political parties tacitly supported fifth term of Bouteflika, while some opposition groups protested. Another five years under the rule of seriously ill President, surrounded by a mysterious circle of decision makers, is not an acceptable scenario for many in the North African state. The natural result was the resignation of President Bouteflika on April 4, 2019 and the refusal to participate in the elections under the pressure of the people. But Bouteflika leaves Algeria on the threshold of new uncertainties.