Algeria’s 75-year-old President Abdelmadjid Tebboune was reportedly transferred to the military hospital of Algiers on Monday, amid fears his health may deteriorate after he contracted the novel coronavirus.
Social media users speculated that he was taken to the Ain El Najah military hospital in anticipation that his health may deteriorate.
The hospital only treats military officers and boasts advanced ventilators that are not found in other hospitals where COVID-19 patients are treated.
The presidency did no comment on the news, although it often does to refute false reports.
Tebboune went into five-day self-isolation on Saturday after “several” senior presidential and government officials showed symptoms of Covid-19.
Tebboune is scheduled to inaugurate the Great Mosque of Algiers on Nov. 1, which marks the 66th anniversary of Algerian Revolution and falls on the Prophet Mohammed’s birthday.
Government sources told Asharq Al-Awsat that civil and military senior officials are deeply concerned about the possibility of his absence from the official celebrations of Prophet Mohammed’s birthday, the mosque’s inauguration and participation in the vote on the constitutional referendum.
His absence will certainly spark speculation over his ability to continue in power.
Former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika almost completely halted his activity after April 27, 2013, when he suffered a stroke. His deteriorating health condition was the main reason behind the popular uprising to force him to step down.