Algerian Gen Z revives 2019 Hirak protests amid political discontent

ALGIERS, Algeria (MNTV) — Algerian youth activists are preparing to revive the spirit of the 2019 Hirak movement, with calls for mass demonstrations on Friday, October 3, spreading widely across social media. 

The protests, organized by the GenZ213 collective, aim to confront deepening economic stagnation, unemployment, and political dominance by the ruling elite, according to Morocco World News.

According to political analyst Oualid Kebir, the marches are planned to take place peacefully after Friday prayers across Algeria’s provinces. 

Protesters are expected to voice their rejection of worsening corruption and the concentration of power in the hands of the regime, while also highlighting youth unemployment, which exceeds 30%.

Reports suggest that activists are also planning to march toward El-Mouradia, the presidential palace in Algiers, as frustration grows over a widening socio-economic crisis. 

Viral posts on Algerian social media echo calls for change, citing rising living costs and lack of opportunities.

The renewed mobilization comes as Algeria’s state-owned media outlets continue to criticize Morocco’s handling of its recent Gen Z protests. 

Over the past week, Moroccan youth have staged demonstrations against fragile healthcare, poor education, and economic disparities, leading to a heavy security crackdown.

Observers note that Algeria’s Gen Z appears determined to build momentum similar to the 2019 Hirak movement, which forced former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika to step down after mass protests against his bid for a fifth term.