Ali Benflis, a presidential candidate in Algeria’s upcoming election, recently criticized current president Abdelaziz Bouteflika, reports AFP.
Benflis said Bouteflika has failed to pass reforms in his 15-year-long rule.
“He who is unable to rule should not blame others…Fifteen years were not enough for their reforms and today they demand another five,” he said.
Bouteflika has also been criticized for seeking a fourth term despite his old age and major health problems. He suffered a stroke last year and is reportedly having trouble walking and speaking, according to AFP.
In a speech Monday, Benflis urged reforms in all sectors of Algerian society.
“Neither the doctors nor the patients are satisfied with the state of the health sector…the teachers lack everything, and when they protest they are repressed by the police,” he said, adding, “the judges have their hands tied and obey the executive, from appointments to promotions to dismissals …the judiciary is not independent, which is why it doesn’t prosecute corruption.”
A human rights lawyer and former prime minister, Benflis has promised a better constitution and more independence to the judges.
Ali Benflis is Bouteflika’s biggest competitor in the presidential race.
