Bouteflika ends intelligence structuration

World media gave a big importance to President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s decision to dismiss the chief of the intelligence department General Mohamed Mediene alias Toufik.

French daily newspaper Le Monde published an article untitled “force departure of General Toufik, the strong man in Algeria’s intelligence.”

It talked about events which had taken place in Algeria for the last two years including President Bouteflika’s ’bid for a fourth term.

Another French newspaper published an article untitled “Algeria’s intelligence chief dismissed.” It just said Othmane Tartag succeeded Mediene who had held that position for about 25 years.

 BBC also posted an article untitled “Algerian President Bouteflika dimisses intelligence director.” It said President Bouteflika started excluding the army and intelligence from the political scene before he had been re-elected in April. This came ahead of his departure after remaining in power for more than 15 years.

New York Times also published an article untitled “President Bouteflika excludes intelligence strong man.” It said President Bouteflika made that decision to reinforce his prerogatives. It quoted observers saying it may pave the way for his departure after 15 years in power.

Washington Post said Othmane Tartag has been the man No 2 in the intelligence department until 2013.

It talked about Djebbar Mhana and General Hassan who were close to General Toufik and dismissed, two years ago.

The Middle-East, an Arabic speaking newspaper based in London, published an article untitled “Bouteflika ends intelligence dominance on leaders making.” It considered the dismissal as Bouteflika’s most important decision ever.