Algerian Protests
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the protests in Algeria had been called off for the first time in a year.
Revolution of Smiles
The protests in Algeria is also called the Revolution of Smiles or the Hirak Movement. It is an anti-government protest that started in February of 2019. It is a protest against Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who had announced his candidacy for the 5th term as president, and his government.
Abdelaziz Bouteflika
Abdelaziz Bouteflika is an Algerian politician who had served as the President of Algeria for 4 terms. However, he resigned during his 5th term due to widespread protests. He was the longest serving head in the country, with nearly 20 years in power as president.
Current Issue
Though Bouteflika had resigned in April, 2019, the Revolution of Smiles has continued as people have been demanding for the resignation of the entire ruling regime. There have been allegation of corruption across the ranks. The protests were recently called off as death toll from COVID-19 had crossed 10 and the number of infected cases reached 90.
