Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has secured a second term in office, winning the country’s presidential election with a landslide victory. The National Independent Authority for Elections announced on Sunday that Tebboune received a staggering 94% of the vote, far surpassing his two challengers: Islamist Abdelali Hassani Cherif (3%) and socialist Youcef Aouchiche (2.1%).
While the results surprised few observers, both internationally and within Algeria, they come amidst criticism regarding the election’s legitimacy and a repressive atmosphere surrounding the campaign. Activists and international organizations, including Amnesty International, denounced the harassment and prosecutions of opposition figures, media outlets, and civil society groups. They argued that the election served as a mere rubber stamp to solidify the status quo.
Despite these concerns, Tebboune and his challengers encouraged political participation, particularly targeting Algerian youth who make up a large portion of the population and disproportionately suffer from poverty and unemployment. However, the reported voter turnout of 48% fell short of the 58% turnout from the 2019 election. This lower turnout is particularly significant considering the higher participation rate Tebboune and his challengers had aimed for.
Even before the official announcement of Tebboune’s victory, his opponents expressed concerns about delays and alleged irregularities in vote-counting procedures. Ahmed Sadok, campaign manager for Islamist Abdelali Hassani Cherif, claimed that his party, the Movement of Society for Peace, had witnessed instances of proxy voting and pressure on poll workers to inflate certain figures.
Algeria’s presidential election took place amidst a year of numerous elections worldwide, encompassing more than half the global population. Despite the criticisms and concerns surrounding the process, Tebboune’s victory solidifies his hold on power in a nation facing economic challenges and a yearning for change. The election’s outcome and the criticisms surrounding it highlight the ongoing struggle for democratic progress in Algeria.
