Algeria approves final elections' result

The Algerian constitutional council announced Tuesday the final results of the April 17 presidential election, endorsing Abdulaziz Bouteflika as president with an overwhelming majority. Bouteflika won 81.53 percent of total vote to secure a fourth term in office, president of the constitutional court Murad Medelci said in a state television statement, noting that turnout reached 50.7 percent. The official added that the results were final and cannot be challenged. Bouteflika's main rival former Premier Ali Benflis came second with 12.18 percent. Candidates Abdulaziz Belaid garnered 3.36 percent, Louisa Hanoune 1.37 percent, Ali Fawzi Rebaine 0.99 percent, and Moussa Touati 0.56 percent. Bouteflika expressed in a televised statement his appreciation to all candidates who run in elections. The Algerian leader expressed hope that all candidates work to make the country prosper. President Bouteflika also thanked the Algerian people for their support, praising role of the Algerian army and police during the elections.