The demonstrations take place in a peaceful environment so far reported by the local press.

Commenting on the bid of Bouteflika to run for the 5th term of presidency, Former Algerian Prime Minister Ali Benflis said it is "insulting for the Algerian people" while the 81-year-old President Abdelaziz Bouteflika is struggling with serious health problems.

The fact that Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who came to power in Algeria in 1999, once again became a candidate has been causing demonstrations in the country for some time. Many Algerians believe Bouteflika is unfit for the presidency while he is rarely seen in public due to his advanced age and health problems.

These protests show that the people have begun to destroy the long-held taboos while they are generally reluctant to express political views because of the tight security environment in the country and fear of intelligence agencies in the country. (ILKHA)