Algeria president vows to stay in power despite health concerns

Ailing Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika said Saturday he will stay in office until the end of his term despite suffering "some health concerns," in an implicit response to his opposition who are calling for holding early presidential elections.

"Despite my current physical condition... I'm determined to accomplish this task with the help of God, in accordance with the mandate entrusted to me by the majority of the people," President Bouteflika said in a message to the nation on the eve of celebrations of Independence Day of Algeria.

Several opposition parties and personalities have been urging Bouteflika to step down due to his physical incapacity. They are claiming to organise anticipated elections to vote for a new president.

Bouteflika further invited all the parties to start up a national communion and democratic debate, within respect of democratic ethics, in a bid "to spread hope and support efforts made so far."

The president also assured that the process of amending the Constitution has reached its final stage, without, however, revealing when it is to be made public.

"The consolidation of the rule of law will continue, over the reforms that will also be strengthened in all fields, through the revision of the Constitution, which the project is ultimately finalized," Bouteflika said.

The draft constitutional amendment is the last station in the package of reforms launched by Bouteflika in April 2011, which included amending laws relating to elections, political parties, associations and media.