The Algerian military has launched a new wave of arrests after citizens rallied online under the hashtag “Manich Rady” to demand an end to military rule and urgent reforms fueled by frustration over poor living conditions. The arrests come as the protest movement gains momentum.
The call for change gained traction across Algeria, drawing in people from various social groups frustrated by the lack of improvements in their living standards.
The protests reflect a revival of the spirit of the 2019 “Hirak Movement,” when millions of Algerians protested against the then President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s bid for a fifth term, and later called for the end of military rule altogether.
Activists now argue that the military must return to its traditional role of securing borders and ensuring stability, leaving governance to civilian leadership. A growing number of citizens are demanding urgent reforms to tackle the country’s economic crisis, which they say is caused by the military’s tight grip on power.
The call for change is fueled by the severe economic stagnation that has resulted from policies such as import restrictions, which have led to shortages of basic goods like cars, food, and electronics. These shortages have contributed to rising inflation, unemployment, and a sharp decline in the value of the Algerian dinar, causing further hardship for ordinary people.
Social media has become a key platform for organizing protests, with videos showing citizens openly criticizing military rule and demanding a shift in governance.
The situation has sparked debates about Algeria’s future, as many believe the country can only move forward with a government that prioritizes civilian leadership and addresses the needs of its people.
Despite the government’s crackdown, which includes mass arrests and efforts to suppress dissent, Algerians continue to push for political and economic reforms.
The protests have highlighted the deep frustration within the population, as people demand an end to the military’s dominance and a fairer, more transparent system that can address their economic challenges.