Amnesty International on Thursday called on Algerian security forces to exercise restraint and refrain from resorting to the use of force against demonstrators.
"Algerian security forces should refrain from using excessive or unnecessary force to disperse peaceful demonstrations against the candidacy of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika for a fifth term," the organization said on the eve of new demonstrations scheduled for Friday across the country.
"With increasing tensions amid mounting protests, we appeal to the Algerian authorities to exercise restraint, respect the rights of demonstrators and not use excessive or unnecessary force to suppress peaceful protests," said Amnesty International's Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Magdalena Magrabi. .
"The security forces must use force only as a last resort, but should only be used proportionately and when absolutely necessary," she said. "The Algerian authorities must ensure that their actions are not violated by the country's constitution or international obligations."