Algerians reject president’s reforms

Algerian protesters have rejected President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s proposed reforms, saying they seek major changes to the country’s Constitution.

“The constitution is outdated and must be amended to meet public demand and avoid a possible Libyan scenario,” vice president of Movement of Society for Peace, Abderrazak Mokri, told Press TV in the capital, Algiers.

The opposition says the country’s current Constitution gives too much power to the president, while banning religion-based parties.

Boutelfika says all political parties, whether or not represented in the parliament will play a role in Algeria’s future under his proposed reforms.

The opposition, however, says Bouteflika’s proposal will not bring about any real change.

Demonstrations are banned in the North African country, but youths have rallied several times in recent months, demanding political change.

Algerian police equipped with riot shields, helmets, bullet-proof vests and batons confronts the protesters and disperses any such gatherings.