In Algeria, the Beginning of the End for Politics as Usual

On April 18, Algerians will head to the polls to either re-elect incumbent President Abdel Aziz Bouteflika, or replace him with one of a raft of opposition candidates who have entered the race. But unlike past elections, there is a small chance that this next presidential election -- and the social unrest that surrounds it -- could spur lasting change in Algeria. A weak economy, along with a political system that is seemingly unable (or unwilling) to fix it, has driven a wave of opposition support, increasing the likelihood of unprecedented turnout at the polls and potentially, the streets. But even if this year's presidential bid doesn't result in a new government, the next one almost certainly will -- as this upcoming election marks just the beginning of a new era in Algerian politics....