Algeria has declared three days of national mourning following the death of former President Liamine Zeroual, who passed away at the age of 84.
Zeroual, a former military officer who led the country between 1994 and 1999, died at a military hospital in Algiers after a prolonged illness, according to an official statement from the presidency.
Authorities also announced that flags would be flown at half-mast nationwide in his honour.
Born on July 3, 1941, in Batna, eastern Algeria, Zeroual was a member of the National Liberation Army, FLN, the force that played a central role in the country’s struggle for independence from French colonial rule.
He later emerged as a key figure during a turbulent period in Algeria’s history, heading a transitional government amid a civil conflict. In 1995, he oversaw the country’s first multi-party presidential election, securing victory by a significant margin.
Despite his mandate, Zeroual stepped down in 1998 before completing his five-year term, paving the way for his successor, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who went on to lead Algeria for two decades.
Following his exit from public office, Zeroual largely stayed out of the political spotlight but remained widely respected for his role in stabilising the country during a critical period.
Algeria declares three days of mourning as ex-President Zeroual dies at 84
