05/03/2019 (Agence Europe) – Asked about a fifth candidacy in the presidential election for Abdelaziz Bouteflika, whose state of health is raising questions, the spokesperson of the European External Action Service, Maja Kocijancic, explained that it is "up to the Algerian Constitutional Council to confirm the compliance (of the candidates) with the Constitution and electoral law". Concerning the demonstrations in opposition to this candidacy, Ms Kocijancic recalled that "the right to freedom of expression and assembly (were) enshrined in the Algerian Constitution". "We expect these rights can be exercised peacefully and can be guaranteed in accordance with the rule of law," she added. (CG)