However, Algeria’s current situation echoes the experiences of other North African nations, such as Egypt and Tunisia, following the Arab Spring. The demonstrations failed to weaken the grip of Algeria’s military, which has remained dominant since the country’s independence.
Although Dr. Adlan runs his own clinic in Algeria, he continues to contemplate emigrating to Europe. He remains skeptical that the upcoming presidential election will bring about genuine democracy or progress for the country. “I feel bitter and disillusioned,” he admits, opting to withhold his surname when we meet at a café in Algiers.
Five years ago, his optimism was much higher. Like many Algerians involved in the Hirak movement, he believed freedom and democracy were within reach. As a father of two, he regularly joined the protests that led to the ousting of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika after 20 years in power.
Abdelmadjid Tebboune, the current president, is seen as having the military’s backing. After Bouteflika’s resignation, Tebboune was elected in 2019 and is now favored to secure a second term in an election featuring two other candidates: Abdelaali Hassani and Youcef Aouchiche. Thirteen other candidates, including opposition figure Zubaida Assoul, were disqualified. Assoul argues the authorities are not committed to holding a legitimate election capable of enacting real change. She also claims the stringent signature requirements for candidacy were designed to be unattainable.
In contrast, supporters of President Tebboune, such as Abdelrahman Saleh, dismiss these criticisms, accusing disqualified candidates of using excuses to mask their inability to garner sufficient support.
Meanwhile, Dr. Adlan reflects on the exodus of his peers—many of whom have relocated to Europe over the past five years, with France and French-speaking Canadian provinces as popular destinations. The desperation is also evident in those who resort to dangerous Mediterranean crossings to escape deteriorating conditions in Algeria.
Despite its wealth in natural resources, Algeria struggles with youth unemployment, which exceeds 30%. Though President Tebboune has pledged to create jobs, his critics remain unconvinced.
When asked whether he plans to vote, Dr. Adlan remains undecided. Next to him, journalist AbdelWakeel Blam, another Hirak participant, expresses his frustration and vows to boycott the election, citing restrictions on free expression and the imprisonment of journalists and activists.
While government officials like Mr. Saleh insist that only lawbreakers face prosecution, many Algerians feel the election outcome is predetermined. As I walk through Algiers, the lack of campaign activity reflects this sentiment. “Why bother? We already know the winner,” one resident remarks.
