Mokri responds to Sellal: the army does not serve businessmen

Leader of Algeria’s MSP Abderrezak Mokri Sunday said the military institution should accompany change to popular sovereignty and consensus between different national forces.

On his Facebook page, Mokri wrote that transition from military rule to businessmen’s rule is not desired by Algerians. “This transition to businessmen like Trump is the worst thing which can happen in Algeria.”

Mokri’s remarks come in response to Prime Minister Abdelmalek Sellal who made comments on Trump’s victory, saying he won thanks to his efforts.

Mokri raised a question about Sellal’s remarks. “What does Sellal mean by that? It may be understood that it is a message to the army. Trump defeated the institution which made presidents in the US. He imposed himself by money and this may happen in Algeria.”

Mokri added that “transition to a monstrous capitalist system ruled by a small number of businessmen means poverty spread. The army which used to make presidents would be a tool in the hand of businessmen to oppress people. They will have to choose between poverty and safety.”

“I do not think that the military institution would accept this role. It represents a national popular army and does not follow any intellectual or political trend,” he said.

“The experience showed that the only solution to overcome the crisis is the popular sovereignty which makes real policies balance. We do not want a coup,” he added.

Speaking about the MSP’s vision about the army’s role in the political life, Mokri said his party wants the military institution to accompany change to popular sovereignty and consensus between different national forces. At that time, it will remain the respected institution by all the Algerian people.