Algerian army will try to guard fiefdom in transition

Significance

The military leadership has seized control of the political process, but has shown little interest in assuming formal power, often demonstrating sympathies with protesters while preserving the constitutional order.

Impacts

• The prime minister and interim president may be pushed to quit as a concession.
• Elections planned for July 4 may be postponed if unrest grows.
• The economy may suffer as tourism will decline and foreign investors will hesitate to become involved in an uncertain energy sector.