Nearly 25 million eligible voters in Algeria are casting ballots on Thursday in parliamentary elections for the 407-seat lower house, with the contest dominated by cost-of-living pressures and the exclusion of 269 candidates, including former leaders of the pro-democracy Hirak movement. The government has declared a paid national holiday to boost turnout after campaign events were largely ignored by the public.
Economic Strains and Political Apathy
Many Algerians remain preoccupied with everyday challenges such as declining purchasing power and deteriorating public services, rather than electoral politics. The World Cup also diverts attention, as the national team faces Switzerland in a knockout match early Friday. Turnout is a major concern; the outgoing pro-government majority holds around 300 seats, while the Islamist MSP party is the second largest with 64 seats.
Banned Candidates and Security Measures
The electoral authority barred 269 candidates, citing “links to illicit financial networks” and “suspicious political activities.” Among them are former Hirak activists and leaders who helped oust long-serving autocrat Abdelaziz Bouteflika in 2019. Security forces deployed in front of polling stations in Algiers on Wednesday. In southern Algeria and the Sahara, voting began 48 hours early to accommodate nomadic populations, with ballot boxes transported in police-escorted off-road vehicles.
Diaspora Voting and Logistical Adjustments
Algerians abroad, numbering approximately 854,225 registered voters—particularly in France—cast ballots on Saturday and Sunday at consular offices. State news agency APS reported high turnout and a “family atmosphere.” To free up classrooms and teachers for polling stations, the government moved up end-of-year school exam dates.
Grassroots Campaigning and Opposition Messages
Faced with empty campaign venues, parties and independent candidates turned to “grassroots meetings” in streets, markets, and cafes. In a widely viewed video, a party head unsuccessfully tried to convince a young man to vote. The presidential majority, led by the long-serving FLN party, urges broad turnout to strengthen Algeria geopolitically. The Trotskyist Workers’ Party campaigns for higher pensions and wages, opposing mining sector reforms favoring foreign investors. The Socialist Forces Front calls for releasing political prisoners and freer media, warning that boycotting the elections would only benefit the government.
