The family of former Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika left the presidential headquarters in the western suburbs of Algiers early this week, revealed informed sources.
They vacated the premises at the orders of the military authorities, the de facto rulers after Bouteflika stepped down on April 2 following mass protests.
The four members of his family left the headquarters at the orders of the defense ministry, the sources told Asharq Al-Awsat.
The family was living in Zeralda city. The official presidential palace lies in the El Mouradia in the Algiers province.
The development took place as Said Bouteflika, the former president’s younger brother, has found himself in the eye of the political upheaval in Algeria.
Former Defense Minister Khaled Nizar revealed details of a telephone call he held with Said before Bouteflika’s resignation.
Said expressed concern over his brother stepping down under military pressure.
He voiced his fears over a potential military coup, led by chief of staff Ahmed Gaid Salah, and therefore mulled the possibility of sacking him from his post, revealed Nizar.
The revelation, said observers, was dangerous and enough to lead Said to court on charges of plotting a coup against the military commander.
Nizar, for his part, advised Said to comply with protester demands and allow Bouteflika to step down.
Mass protests, which began on February 22 and have been largely peaceful, have continued after Bouteflika’s resignation as many want the removal of the entire elite.
Bouteflika has been replaced by Abdelkader Bensalah, head of the upper house of parliament, as interim president for 90 days until a presidential election is held on July 4.
