MIXED RESULTS FOR ALGERIA'S PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS

Algeria's May 17 parliamentary elections did not change the political landscape. Voters reelected the Presidential Alliance, although with some changes that shift power slightly away from the historically dominant National Liberation Front. Yet, the results of the legislative election must be put into perspective, as power rests with the presidency, not with the Popular National Assembly (ANP).

*The outcome is less satisfactory than it appears. Although the Presidential Alliance, a coalition of three parties, kept its control over the ANP, its victory was marred by the very low voter turnout. The electorate's apathy confirmed the disaffection of the population.

*The real issue concerns the country's leadership. Will the Algerian president alter the Constitution to seek a third term? Or are President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's health problems serious enough to make politicians start thinking about the succession? If it is the case, who might be the main contenders?

*The military establishment will strive, if not to stay in control, at least to protect its interests. However, history tells us that front men may also prove to be more independent from their protectors than planned, as it happened with Bouteflika.

*Resource nationalism will remain part of the picture. However, international oil companies might wish to stay the course, as the country remains more investor friendly than some alternatives. Moreover, security issues are manageable.

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