The constitution binds Ben Saleh .. Any powers for the interim president of Algeria?

Abdelkader Ben Saleh on Tuesday formally assumed the presidency of Algeria, succeeding outgoing President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, but he will be deprived of many powers under the constitution, which has greatly reduced its functions.

According to Algeria's amended constitution in 2016, the president of the National Assembly automatically takes over the leadership of the country upon the vacancy of the presidency because of the resignation or death of the president or the exposure of an obstacle preventing him from continuing his work.

The constitution stipulates that the interim president leads the country for a maximum period of 90 days during which he supervises the organization of presidential elections that prevent him from running for office.

According to Article 104 of the Constitution, during the period of his leadership the interim President will not be able to dismiss, amend, dissolve parliament or call for early legislative elections.

The Interim President can not amend the Constitution either by proposing a proposal for amendment or to approve a proposal submitted by Parliament.

The Constitution restricts the provisional powers of the President concerning the proclamation of a state of emergency or exceptional situation - if the country is under imminent threat - declaring war or signing armistice agreements and peace treaties with the consent of the Parliament and its two chambers together after consultation with the Constitutional Council and the Supreme Security Council.

The interim President can also not issue amnesty, reduce sanctions or replace them. Or to invite the people to a referendum on every issue of national importance, nor can it legislate on urgent matters in case of parliamentary vacancy or during parliamentary holidays.

Several political parties in Algeria have refused to implement the current constitution after Bouteflika's resignation because it provides limited options to respond to the demands of the popular movement, which has been going on since 22 February, including the departure of all symbols of the regime.