Algeria’s Election on Edge: Voter Apathy and Suppression Loom as Tebboune’s Victory Seems Inevitable

This apathy reflects a broader disillusionment with the political process, as many Algerians are grappling with inflation and the rising costs of essential goods, overshadowing the electoral discourse.

Incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who is seeking a second term, appears to be the favored candidate, with the election process lacking significant competitive energy. Tebboune’s primary challengers are 57-year-old Islamist Abdelaali Hassani Cherif and 41-year-old socialist Youcef Aouchiche, the latter a former journalist representing a center-left opposition party. However, the limited number of candidates and the low-key nature of their campaigns have failed to ignite a fervor among voters.

This sense of political disengagement starkly contrasts with the fervent hopes of April 2019, when the Hirak movement mobilized widespread protests calling for deep-rooted changes in Algeria’s political structure. The movement’s demands led to the resignation of long-time President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and fueled expectations for substantial reform. However, many now feel that the political landscape has reverted to a status quo, with entrenched elites maintaining control and stifling genuine democratic debate.

Sociologist Mohamed Hennad describes the current election as a mere formality, aimed more at achieving a high voter turnout to lend legitimacy to Tebboune’s anticipated victory rather than fostering genuine democratic engagement. The turnout from the 2019 elections was a mere 14 percent, as many voters boycotted the process in protest.

In recent years, the Algerian government has faced criticism for its handling of political dissent and activism. Although Tebboune initially responded to the Hirak movement’s demands with some concessions, including the release of imprisoned activists, the government later took measures that curtailed protest activities and continued to target opposition figures and journalists.

The arrest of prominent activists and candidates, such as Karim Tabbou and Fethi Ghares, further exacerbates concerns about the fairness of the electoral process. Tabbou’s recent detention, described by his wife as an “abduction,” and the legal troubles faced by Ghares and his colleagues illustrate ongoing repression and stifling of dissent.

Despite these challenges, Tebboune has campaigned on a platform of economic improvement, promising to continue his efforts to raise wages, pensions, and support for youth entrepreneurship. His speeches have emphasized his commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises, aiming to present himself as a reliable leader capable of addressing Algeria’s pressing issues.

As the election approaches, the prevailing sense of disillusionment and the perceived lack of genuine political competition highlight the deep-seated frustrations among Algerians, overshadowing the political landscape with a pervasive sense of resignation.