ALGIERS, Algeria - Algeria is holding an elaborate military funeral for the general who was the de facto ruler of the gas-rich country amid political turmoil throughout this year. Gaid Salah died unexpectedly Monday after a heart attack, plunging Algeria into new uncertainty after 10 months of pro-democracy protests. The military chief then pushed for elections earlier this month, won by a former prime minister considered close to Gaid Salah, Abdelmadjid Tebboune. Algeria’s military plays a central role in decision-making in this country, a key ally to Western powers in fighting Islamic extremism. Protesters later turned against Gaid Salah, demanding his departure and a wholesale makeover of Algeria’s political structure.

Source: thestar December 25, 2019 11:26 UTC