Sellal: changes within DRS will not make Algeria lose its balance

Algerian Prime Minister Abdelmalek Sellal Wednesday said Algeria will not lose its balance with President Abdelaziz Bouteflika as intelligence department (DRS) was reshuffled.

“The country’s financial and economic situation is difficult but solutions are there and they are not impossible. Solidarity social character will be preserved for vulnerable people,” Sellal said in a tripartite meeting in Biskra.

Algeria will not lose its balance with Bouteflika

Speaking about changes made to the State’s institutions, the Prime Minister said Algeria will “never lose its balance with President Bouteflika. His government is here to serve people and defend the State’s continuity whatever the price.”

“Those who are just criticizing should know that they do not serve their country like this. They have to be involved in public affairs so that the national renewal endeavour would be achieved,” he added.

Sellal criticized opposition parties, saying they call for pessimism and have doubts about everything. “I know that they will be sceptical about our will to boost economy and our capacity to face the difficult situation. Yet, we confirm that we are determined to face their pessimistic messages by a hope and courage message.”

Poor people’s rights are preserved

Speaking about economy, Sellal said Algeria’s financial and economic situation can be a positive booster.

“Actually, our choices are not arbitrary. The government set $45 as oil barrel referential price in the next year financial act. This would have a positive impact on growth without having recourse to austerity,” he asserted.

Speaking about the government’s road map to face the oil crisis, he gave a reassuring image about the situation, criticizing remarks made by some economic experts.

“Bouteflika is a politician who is attached to vulnerable people and will not hit Algeria and Algerians’ dignity. Public finance rational management and anticipated decisions will help Algeria to face any oil price fall,” he said.

“This resistance will enable the government to produce resources, create new jobs, improve purchasing power and continue applying employment, housing, health and education programs,” he added.