Algerian Islamists demand democratic transition to solve economic crisis

The Algerian Islamist Society for Peace Movement has said that if the ruling regime accepts a democratic transition it is willing to help in managing the country’s economic crisis.

“Algeria will go through a major crisis that will last for three or four years,” the group’s head, Abdul Razzaq Muqri, told Al-Khabar newspaper. “The movement has a vision for a solution, but the ruling authority must agree to engage in a democratic transition that includes the establishment of an independent commission to oversee the elections and a national unity government.”

Muqri stressed that his movement will not be deceived as it was in the 1990s during the “security phase”. He said that the party will continue with its opposition despite intimidation and pressure.

“There is a transfer of the state monopoly into the hands of a few businessmen who share interests with ruling groups in the country and abroad, especially France and the USA,” warned Muqri. “This will fail because the Algerians will not accept it.”