ALGERIA’S government approved a Bill that bans retired military personnel from running for political office for five years after their retirement, ahead of presidential elections planned for December.

The Bill was presented to the House of Representatives for approval by General Ahmed Gaid Salah following a cabinet meeting chaired by Algeria’s interim President Abdelkader Bensalah.

Mr Salah said in a statement: “In this situation, the military element remains at the disposal of the People’s National Army for five years, during which he or she can be recalled at any time.

“Throughout the restriction period, the military element eligible for definitive duty suspension, can freely exercise his or her rights and freedoms guaranteed by the laws of the republic.”

Algeria has been in political deadlock since the ousting of former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika in April after mass demonstrations. 

Protests have continued to grow as Algerians seek to sweep aside all those associated with the former regime.

A number of arrests have been made of high-profile figures, including former prime ministers and business leaders.

Mr Bouteflika’s brother Said was handed a 15-year prison sentence last month for conspiring against the state and undermining the military.

The decree comes with presidential elections scheduled to be held in the country on December 12.