Algerian President, Abdelmadjid Tebboune has paid tribute to former leader Liamine Zeroual, whose death at the age of 84 has prompted nationwide mourning.
Authorities have declared three days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across the country.
Born in 1941 in Batna, eastern Algeria, Zeroual rose through the ranks of the National Liberation Army, which fought for independence from France.
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He assumed the presidency in 1994 during one of the country’s most turbulent periods, as Algeria grappled with a violent civil conflict.
During his tenure, Zeroual is credited with helping steer the country toward political transition. In 1995, he organised Algeria’s first multi-party presidential election, securing a strong mandate.
In a surprise decision in 1998, he stepped down before completing his term, paving the way for Abdelaziz Bouteflika to take office.
Although he largely withdrew from public life thereafter, Zeroual remained a widely respected figure, remembered for guiding Algeria through a period of crisis and laying the foundations for political reform.
African News