Algeria’s Uprising: A Comprehensive Analysis of Protesters and Military Perspectives

Following President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s resignation on April 2, 2019, Algeria has witnessed persistent protests aimed at dismantling the entire political regime. A comprehensive survey of over 9,000 Algerians, including 1,700 military personnel, reveals overwhelming support for the protest movement, with a shared desire for political change among lower-ranking military members, contrasting with the resistance observed from senior officers. The situation suggests impending conflicts between the protesters and the military over political and economic privileges in a post-Bouteflika Algeria.

In light of recent political upheavals in Algeria, a significant development occurred on April 2, 2019, when President Abdelaziz Bouteflika tendered his resignation. This marked the fifth instance of an Arab president being deposed following widespread public protests since the onset of the Arab Spring in 2011. Subsequent to his resignation, demonstrations have continued to escalate, with participants demanding a thorough dismantling of the existing political order. Conducting an extensive online survey comprised of over 9,000 Algerians, the opinions regarding the protests and their objectives were meticulously evaluated. In addition, the survey incorporated a substantial cohort of 1,700 military personnel, facilitating a comparative analysis between their viewpoints and those of the protesters. The data revealed that a significant majority of Algerians support the protest movement and advocate for a comprehensive overhaul of the political system. Individuals both participating in the protests and those remaining disengaged express a shared discontent towards corruption, collectively favoring a transition toward a democratic framework. Intriguingly, the results indicate that lower-ranking military personnel, including soldiers and junior officers, predominantly align their perspectives with the protesters’ demands. Yet, senior military officials exhibit a marked resistance to these calls for change. Looking ahead, it is anticipated that tensions will arise as protesters increasingly confront military personnel across all ranks regarding the military’s retained political and economic advantages in the aftermath of Bouteflika’s regime.

The political landscape in Algeria has been historically shaped by a combination of authoritarian rule and longstanding military influence. With the resignation of President Bouteflika, following extensive protests fueled by public dissatisfaction over corruption and a lack of democratic governance, the country finds itself at a pivotal juncture. The protests not only signify a rejection of Bouteflika’s leadership but also embody a broader aspiration for systemic reform. To further understand the dynamics between the protest movement and the military establishment, the survey conducted encompasses both civilians and military personnel, providing a comprehensive overview of societal sentiments during this transitional period.

In summary, the ongoing protests in Algeria reflect widespread societal demand for political reform and an end to systemic corruption. The diverging views between lower-ranking military personnel and senior officers highlight internal divisions within the military regarding support for or opposition to the protest movement. As Algeria navigates this complex political landscape, the potential for conflict between protesters and the military regarding governance and economic privileges remains a critical issue that will shape the nation’s future trajectory.

Original Source: www.brookings.edu