Algeria’s presidential election kicked off on Saturday, with polling stations across the country opening at 8 a.m. local time (0700 GMT). This early election, advanced from its original December date, was announced by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune in June.
Over 23.4 million registered voters within Algeria are expected to participate, while more than 865,000 Algerians abroad had already begun voting prior to the domestic polling opening. The voting period is set to continue until 7 p.m. (1800 GMT), with an extension of up to one hour possible if deemed necessary by election officials.
The race features incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who is seeking a second term, alongside Abdelaali Hassani Cherif from the Movement of Society for Peace and socialist candidate Youcef Aouchiche. Tebboune, aged 78, is anticipated to win re-election and continue his leadership in Algeria.
As the election unfolds, it remains to be seen how the candidates’ platforms will resonate with voters and what impact the early election will have on Algeria’s political landscape. The outcome will be closely watched both domestically and internationally, reflecting the current state of Algerian politics and its future trajectory.