By: Draxon Maloya.
Lilongwe, Malawi. (News of The South) – There are celebrations in the capital city of Algeria, Algiers and beyond following an announcement by the state media APS, that the 82 year old president Abdelaziz Boutafrika has resigned some few hours ago.
Mr. Boutafrika who has been in power for 20 years had already drawn plans to seek a fifth term of office as opposition to his rule grew.
The powerful Algerian army had called for the 82 year old to be declared incapable of carrying out his duties.
The ailing leader suffered stroke six years ago and has rarely appeared in public.
“The president of the republic, Abdelaziz Boutafrika has officially notified the president of the constitutional council of his decision to end his mandate as president of the republic, “ reads the communiqué.
Then the state television then reported that this would be with immediate effect.
Pressure had been mounting since February when the first demonstration were sparked by Mr. Boutafrika`s announcement that he would be standing for a fifth term.
Tens of thousands took to the street in protest across the country on 1st March forcing Boutafrika to promise not to seek the fifth term of presidential office.
The powerful military of Algeria has already confirmed the resignation of their commander in chief, Lt General Ahmed Gaed Salah, said earlier on Tuesday that there is no more room to waste time.
The demonstrations have also called for the whole political system in which the military plays a significant role to be overhauled.
Many of the protesters are young and say they want a new system of government all together and no more political interference on internal state matters like the way Mr Boutafrika used his power.
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