U.S. thinktank: domestic challenges will dominate in upcoming Algerian election

As Algeria gears up for a presidential election in September, a report from the Middle East Institute (MEI), a U.S. think tank, says domestic challenges will be top of mind for voters. 

Algerians are struggling with high inflation and there are other economic concerns. 

The country, which uses much of its substantial oil and gas revenues for direct and indirect subsidies, currently faces a budget deficit of almost $45 billion.

"The difficult financial situation of the public treasury will inevitably require a national dialogue between the authorities and various economic actors over how to reform the current economic model," the report said. 

There are also concerns about political freedoms.

Numerous opposition figures including politicians, activists, and journalists have faced trials for criticizing the existing government. 

Algerians will go to the polls on September 7^th. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has not yet announced his candidacy but he is widely expected to run for another term. 

Analysts say voters will have few viable options at the ballot box.

"All sides of the opposition lack perspective and seem unable to provide an alternative to the current administration,” said the MEI report.