World

Thousands denounce president's bid for fifth term in Algeria

March 2, 2019 5:20 am

Thousands in Algeria have taken to the streets angry at 81-year-old President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s plan to seek a fifth term in office.

Police fired tear gas at protesters in the capital, Algiers.

Anti-government protests are rare in Algeria but several broke out after Mr Bouteflika confirmed his candidacy.

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He has rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013 and is currently undergoing medical checks in Switzerland.

As they marched through the streets of Algiers on Friday, some demonstrators carried banners saying “leave means leave”.

Others stressed their intentions were peaceful.