L’abstention en Algérie : un autre mode de contestation politique

Abstract

Pluralism and free elections represent a new phenomenon in Algeria. It should be noted however, that despite the continuing electoral process, abstention rates continue to grow. Such electoral behaviour reveals just how deep the crisis of confidence within the Algerian political system may be. The crisis of confidence may be linked to three principal reasons. First, abstention is linked to the regime mode of government which reformed its procedures without modifying the underlying rules. The consequences are a dissuasive electoral code, suspicious official electoral results and accusations and suspicions of fraud. Secondly, abstention is related to the political offer : the politics offered and the individuals who represent that offer constitute a disappointing choice for potential voters, especially youth, who lose interest in the elections. Finally, abstention is the result of a burned-out, deceived, taciturn, suspicious and demanding electorate. In 1990, the Algerian people voted massively against the FLN regime with all it might represent. In 1995, they voted again to reject terrorism. In both cases, signalled a hope for change. Today, electors no longer vote “against” an idea or “against” a candidate, the simply abstain.

Keywords

• Algeria
• political protest
• abstention
• electoral behaviour
• political offer