Algerian presidential contenders criticize inconsistent election outcomes

Algeria’s recent presidential election has been marred by accusations of irregularities, with all three candidates, including winner Abdelmadjid Tebboune, questioning the veracity of the results announced by the National Independent Election Authority (ANIE). Despite initially being declared the victor with 94.7% of the vote, Tebboune joined his opponents in criticising the election authority for discrepancies in turnout figures and local tallies.
The high level of abstention in the election, with only 5.6 million out of roughly 24 million voters casting their ballots, has been seen as a rebuke to the country’s political elites, including Tebboune, who is considered to be the military’s candidate. Pro-democracy activists have long been skeptical of elections in Algeria, viewing them as a means for the ruling elite to maintain power rather than a true reflection of popular will.
The election results have also sparked criticism from international organizations, with Amnesty International condemning Algeria’s crackdown on human rights in the lead-up to the election. The irregularities and low voter turnout have raised questions about the legitimacy of Tebboune’s victory and the future of democracy in Algeria.
The outcome of the election remains uncertain, with legal challenges and delays in the certification of the results a possibility. The political landscape in Algeria is in flux, with the people sending a clear message to the ruling elite that they will not be satisfied with the status quo.

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