Vote counting begins in Algeria’s presidential election

Earlier, the Independent National Electoral Authority announced an extension of voting by one hour.

Mohamed Charfi, the head of the authority, stated that all provincial coordinators were authorized to delay the closing time of polling stations across the country until 8 p.m. after reviewing their requests.

Charfi also provided updates on voter turnout, noting that as of 5 p.m., the voter turnout among Algerians abroad had reached 18.31%, while the domestic turnout was 26.45%.

He indicated that updated turnout figures would be released after 9 p.m., following the closure of all polling centers.

Charfi emphasized that the electoral process unfolded smoothly, with no incidents reported that could disrupt the voting.

Over 24 million eligible voters headed to the polls on Saturday to elect a new president for the country.

The presidential race features incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who is seeking re-election, alongside Youssef Aouchiche of the Socialist Forces Front and Abdelali Hassani Cherif of the Movement of Society for Peace.

Voting for the Algerian diaspora began last Monday, with an electorate of 865,490 voters, composed of 45% women and 55% men.

As Algeria awaits the outcome, the nation’s focus is now on the vote count, which will determine the future leadership of the country amidst a highly anticipated election.