Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who is running for re-election, has once again drawn criticism and mockery with his recent statements, this time declaring that Algeria’s economy has become the third largest in the world.
His comments, made during an electoral rally in Oran, have sparked widespread skepticism and ridicule on social media.
Tebboune’s assertion places Algeria’s economy in competition with those of the United States and China—an unrealistic claim that has become fodder for online satire.
This is not the first time Tebboune’s statements have faced backlash. His previous comments, including those about the costs of seawater desalination and linking military movements to international events, have similarly drawn widespread derision.
Chaouki Ben Zahra, an Algerian opposition political activist, criticized Tebboune for what he described as irresponsible and ill-considered remarks.
“This is not the first time that President Tebboune has made statements that are unrealistic and quickly become the subject of ridicule,” Ben Zahra said.
“He appears to have a major issue with accurately reporting economic figures and making statements without regard for their implications.”
Ben Zahra further argued that such statements reflect a disregard for the Algerian people’s understanding of their economic and social realities.
He noted that both official and private Algerian media have largely avoided covering Tebboune’s latest claim to avoid embarrassment and to shield the regime from criticism.
“There is a crisis of discourse and leadership in Algeria,” Ben Zahra told Hespress.
“Political discourse is increasingly disconnected from the daily concerns of the people and attempts to obscure the true economic and social conditions through inflated figures.”
Ben Zahra added that this tendency has eroded public trust in Algeria’s political elites. “The constant dishonesty and detachment from reality have led to a loss of confidence in the political process,” he said.
“Political elites now seem confined to operating within the limits set by the regime, further alienating the public.”
As the election approaches, Tebboune’s statements and the ensuing reactions highlight the growing discontent and skepticism among Algerians about their leadership.