Algerians show their discontent: images from the protests

Large-scale protests are continuing in Algeria against President Bouteflika. Now aged 81 and in poor health, he has been president since 1999 is seeking re-election for a fifth term in office (see previous blog post).

Today student demonstrations are being organised though there are reports of police blockades aimed at preventing them from marching.

Bouteflika, who suffered a stroke in 2013, uses a wheelchair and rarely appears in public, travelled to Switzerland on Sunday for what are described as routine medical checks.

The protests clearly have a lot of public support. They appear to be non-partisan, with a single demand: to deny Bouteflika a fifth term. 

Below is a selection of images showing banners and other campaign material posted on social media during the last few days. 

The number 5 – alluding to Bouteflika's fifth term – features prominently in the campaigning. Here's one popular example:

This crossed-out number 5 conveys a clear and simple message. The words say "No to the fifth term. I am Algerian, I am against it."

Flag combines the Arabic word for "NO" with a number 5

Demonstrators position themselves to spell out "NO 5"

"No to the fifth term" – with five Algerian flags

The decline of Bouteflika, in five stages

Another reference to Bouteflika's failing health

Bouteflika as a dinosaur. Poster alluding to the film Jurassic Park

Notice posted on door: "Return my country Algeria to me. Set her free or imprison all of us together"

Computer joke. The "democracy" app has failed to install. "Please clean the system"

 

 

 

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