Recently countries in the Middle East and Northern Africa have encountered riots and demonstrations against leaders who have been in power for decades. Countries like Egypt and Tunisia forced their repressive leaders out of power at the beginning of this year. These actions, along with poverty, high unemployment, and high food prices, have inspired Algeria to do the same to their President Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Riots began in January when food prices angered citizens. The situation intensified when three people were killed while the riot occurred.
In early February, 10,000 people marched towards the capitol to riot against the president. A massive police force of 26,000 was put together to stop people from making to the center of the capitol for their march. Around 1,500 citizens were able to make it passed the blockade and held signs and chanted, "Bouteflika out!". A man named Sadi leads the Rally for Culture and Democracy or RCD and said, "We're going to continue to demonstrate and to defy the authorities until they fall,". It is evident that countries are being inspired by others in their area to overthrow their repressive governments and leaders. It will be interesting to see what happens in Algeria and in other countries in the Middle East and Northern Africa.
http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory?id=12899848&page=1
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