Algiers protests resume demanding real change

Thousands returned to the streets of the Algerian capital on Friday, demanding sweeping changes to the country's government and political system.

The supporters of the Hirak movement - that pushed out former president Abdelaziz Bouteflika in 2019 after 20 years in power - made their way through Algiers chanting slogans such "let the system fall."

Recently, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune announced early parliamentary elections in June, bringing them forward from next year, but that wasn't enough to quell the protests

"The people want a complete change and not just elections," said Ali Lekhdari, a journalist and member of Hirak movement.

Activists are pressing for a full makeover of the opaque system governing Algeria, with the military in the shadows, which has been at the helm since the country won its independence war against France in 1962.

Tebboune announced last month that he would dissolve parliament to open the way for a new batch of candidates from outside the establishment.

He also reshuffled the government and released around 30 detained activists, though dozens more remain jailed.

In another effort to satisfy protesters, Algeria's government finalized a new electoral bill aimed at limiting corruption and giving voters more choice.