President Adelaziz Bouteflika has no plans to relinquish the presidency with the intent to run for another term. He has been in power since 1999, with a political career that began in 1962. Algeria was able to avoid the Arab Spring uprisings in 2011, which saw many of the longtime North African leaders fall from power. Bouteflika however, has faced major health problems. A stroke in 2013 has left him wheelchair bound. There is the claim from the ruling coalition that he still has the ability to lead. There is a growing concern that others are manipulating him and gradually taking power. A youthful population has grown ever more restless, which could result in mass protests and insurrection. France has significant investment in the country and has held a pro-Bouteflika position. Unless there is serious political reform or dramatic change, President Bouteflika could either lose the election or face being removed forcefully from power. It seems that the semi-democratic system has been undermined by a strong executive power coming from the ruling party.President Bouteflika's rare public appearances make many wonder if he really is in control at all. A sudden destabilization of Algeria could increase migrant and refugee traffic. What also might happen would be more armed conflict in neighboring Libya spilling over into other nations such as Niger, Chad, or Sudan.
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