Algeria’s decision to hold early presidential elections may have surprised some, but for those paying attention, it wasn't such a shock.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune likely warned leaders to bring forward the vote to 7 September—three months ahead of schedule. The support of both loyalists and opposition groups to the decision further supports this claim.
Tebboune has yet to announce if we will be running, but political analyst Ahsan Khalas told Al Majalla that any decision made in this regard would be one that emphasises continuity.
For its part, the Algerian official news agency Algeria Press Service (APS) dismissed that the decision indicated any political crisis within the government and said the announcement reflected the government's commitment to transparency.
The report did, however, acknowledge “the presence of external threats" and described the early election as, "a pre-emptive measure against potential orchestrated disturbances."
“It requires leadership from the president, support from the military, and the readiness of institutions to confront external challenges that loom ominously and pose threats to our sovereignty and security."
Continuity candidate
Tebboune definitely has the backing to run again, Khalas explained, pointing to the army's indirect support for the president. Tebboune has also been very vocal in his support for the Palestinian cause and has led important economic projects to advance the country forward.
And finally, Tebboune has successfully confronted and managed Algeria's rising tensions with its neighbouring countries of Morocco, Mali and Niger.
Tip-off
The belief of seasoned observers of Algeria's politics that parties were tipped off before the announcement came from how they reacted.
The Islamist-oriented National Construction Movement was quick to convene an emergency meeting, which set up a commission to prepare for elections.
For its part, the National Liberation Front described the move as "sovereign". It emphasised its commitment to upholding constitutional requirements regarding the dates of elections, respecting the will of the Algerian people, and ensuring institutional stability in the country.
