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Algeria’s President Abdelaziz Bouteflika sacks his campaign manager hours before election deadline, state media confirms

  • Abdelmalek Sellal oversaw Bouteflika’s past three successful re-election bids

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Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika meets with the French prime minister at his residence during an official visit in Zeralda, a suburb of the capital Algiers. Photo: AFP

Algeria’s President Abdelaziz Bouteflika sacked his veteran campaign manager Saturday, state media reported, following mass protests against the ailing leader’s decision to stand for a fifth term in office.

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Former premier Abdelmalek Sellal – who oversaw Bouteflika’s past three successful re-election bids – was removed just hours ahead of a deadline for election hopefuls to formally submit their candidacy.

Abdelmalek Sellal, Algeria's former prime minister and director of current President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's re-election campaign. Photo: AFP
Abdelmalek Sellal, Algeria's former prime minister and director of current President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's re-election campaign. Photo: AFP

Sellal was replaced as campaign manager by Abdelghani Zaalene, the transport minister, APS news agency said, citing Bouteflika’s campaign team.

While no reason was given for the decision, it comes after tens of thousands of Algerians protested Friday against the 82-year-old president standing for re-election.

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