Algiers, 7 September 2024 (dpa/MIA) – Algerians on Saturday began casting their ballots in a presidential election that incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune is widely expected to win.

Tebboune, who took office in late 2019, is seeking a second five-year term.

He is supported by major parties in the energy-rich North African country. Algeria, a former French colony, is a key energy supplier to Europe.

Islamist Hassani Sharif Abdel Aali and Youssef Aouchiche from the Socialist Forces Front are vying with Tebboune.

But analysts see Tebboune, 78, as the clear favourite in the vote.

Tebboune is supported by 17 parties holding majority in the Algerian parliament, Algerian political analyst Hakim Boughrara said.

"He has made some achievements in the first term. Voters may give Tebboune a second chance [in office] to complete the files he opened in the first term such as curbing unemployment, supporting the middle class and attracting a lot of investments to the country," Boughrara told dpa.

Tebboune was elected president in December 2019, eight months after long-time ruler Abdelaziz Bouteflika was forced to resign, under pressure following street protests and from the powerful army.

At least 24 million Algerians are eligible to vote in Saturday's one-day balloting. The polling stations opened at 8 am (0700 GMT) for 11 hours.

Final official results may take weeks before they are announced.