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Algerians Demand End to Military Control in New Online Campaign

Thursday 19 December 2024 - 11:45
Algerians Demand End to Military Control in New Online Campaign

Amid escalating economic difficulties, Algerians have taken to social media to demand an end to military rule with the launch of the hashtag #مانيش_راضي (I’m Not Satisfied). Activists are calling for the military to return to its traditional role of border protection, urging a shift toward civilian leadership to address the country’s ongoing crisis.

Videos circulating online show citizens openly condemning the military's tight grip on the country’s political and economic systems. They argue that military control has worsened living conditions, with restrictive policies like import bans, meant to conserve foreign currency, resulting in shortages of essential goods.

Key items, including cars, electronics, and food, have become increasingly scarce, leaving merchants struggling and fueling inflation. Unemployment continues to rise, and the national currency, the dinar, has lost significant value against foreign currencies, deepening the economic crisis for everyday Algerians.

This unrest echoes the 2019 "Hirak Movement," which initially opposed President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth term. The protests quickly expanded to a broader demand for an end to military dominance in governance. Despite a heavy government crackdown during those demonstrations, including arrests and exile for many activists, the call for change persists.

The latest campaign underscores the growing frustration among citizens who believe that only civilian leadership can bring about the reforms needed to improve their quality of life and restore the nation’s economic stability.


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