Algerian PM pledges transparent elections

Algerian Prime Minister Abdulmalik Al-Sallal said coming presidential elections would be "transparent and flaw free." In remarks broadcast by the official Television, on Friday, Al-Sallal said the government had taken all necessary measures to ensure the holding of the forthcoming elections in "transparent and clear circumstances." The state is keen on organizing transparent polls and implementing recommendations of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika for literal abidance by the laws. He called on the Algerian people to take part in the presidential elections "robustly." "Our task is to build a strong and stable state capable of building a competitive economy," the premier added to the government-run TV station. Up to 12 candidates have registered for Algeria's April 17 presidential election, amid signs the incumbent 77-year-old incumbent Abdelaziz Bouteflika might win a fourth term in the top office. Other eminent candidates include Moussa Touati of the Algerian National Front, Abdelaziz Belaid of the El-Moustakbel Front, head of the Algerian Rally Ali Zaghdoud, and the Workers Party's Louisa Hanoune