Algeria’s Bouteflika resigns amid protests, pressure from army

World Today

Algeria's Bouteflika resigns amid protests, pressure from armyFILE – In this Feb.12 2009 file photo, Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika waves during a rally in Algiers. People of all ages marched Friday March 15, 2019 through Algeria’s capital and other cities amid heavy security for what could be decisive protests against longtime leader Abdelaziz Bouteflika. The crowds appeared bigger than a week ago, when hundreds of thousands took to the streets to demand an end to Bouteflika’s 20-year rule. (AP Photo/Sidali Djarboub)

The end of an Era in Algeria.

The country’s embattled president Abdelaziz Bouteflika has resigned.

The 82-year old leader had faced weeks of mass protests and pressure from the Army to step down.

Bouteflika came to power nearly 20 years ago.

He has rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2013.

CGTN’s Adel el-Mahrouky explains the timing of the announcement.


Hamoud Salhi on Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s resignation

What does Bouteflika’s resignation mean for Algeria? To find out, CGTN’s Mike Walter spoke with Hamoud Salhi, professor of Political Science and Associate Dean of International Education at California State University-Dominguez Hills. He thinks that, while this is a historical day for Algeria, Bouteflika’s resignation is just one step among many needed.