Algeria’s cabinet reshuffle in preparation for constitutional amendment

The government reshuffle shows that Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika is still hoping that the opposition joins cabinet after the April 17th’s presidential elections.

The president’s choice raises questions about the reasons why the parties which supported the fourth term such as the FLN, the RND, Amar Ghoul and Amara Benyounes’ parties and the Republican Alliance were deprived of holding positions in cabinet.

It is said that Bouteflika’s decision is related to the political scene as there was a large number of people who supported the fourth term.

Abdelmalek Sellal had asked opposition parties such as the Worker’s Party and the RCD to be part of cabinet but they refused.

According to sources, parties who supported the fourth term expressed dissatisfaction about the government reshuffle.

The new cabinet is described as “transitional” as it is in charge of preparing for important events including the constitutional amendment, the dissolution of the People’s National Assembly and anticipated legislative elections.