Algeria now has a new president. He is former prime minister Abdelmadjid Tebboune who was sworn in as the new president on Thursday, a week after winning a widely boycotted election.

President Tebboune is succeeding former president Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who was ousted from office in April after mass demonstrations over a planned 5th tenure.

Despite his victory, Citizens of Algeria have remained on the streets to protest what they see as a ploy by the political elite to retain its hold on power. President Tebboune must now address the grievances of the protesters if his administration must start on a good note.

President Tebboune after being elected vowed to extend hands to the Hirak (protest movement) for a dialogue. He also promised to appoint young ministers and push for a new constitution.

Algeria is heavily dependent on oil exports and its budget has been hard hit by low crude prices, which could force Tebboune to take unpopular decisions.

Culled from www.france24.com