Challenges to Democratization Process in Algeria

Abstract

The democratization process in Algeria was marked by the de-militarization efforts when Abdel Aziz Bouteflika was elected president in 1999. Gradually, democratization became an instrument to perpetuate his power against the entrenched interests of country’s Le Pouvior, which is comprised of the retired generals, politicians, and other influential leaders. The continuous struggle among Le Pouvoir for a share of natural resources has created a political and economic vacuum which led to the stalling of the democratization process. This article shall analyze this struggle and its impact on the democratization process in Algeria.