The Algerian government has announced that parliamentary elections are to be held on May 30.
In a cabinet statement, Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika said consultations would begin with political parties and other groups to ensure the poll proceeds without any irregularities.
He expressed his determination to respect the sincerity of the vote and guarantee a free choice for Algerians. It should be pointed out that widespread opposition marred the last elections in Algeria.
The current Algerian National Assembly was elected in 1997 and includes representatives from secular and moderate Islamic parties.
Algerian forces have been engaged in a ten-year civil war with Islamic militants that started after an Islamic party was prevented from taking power following parliamentary elections.
It is estimated that about 100,000 people have been killed in the past 10 years of bloodshed and violence. (Albawaba.com)
