Algerians voted on Saturday in an election in which military-backed President Abdulmadjid Tebboune is widely expected to win a second term, but early turnout figures suggested little enthusiasm among voters.
More than two dozen other candidates that signified their intention to run were disqualified or forced to resign.
To cement his legitimacy, not only does Tebboune hope to win but also to outpace the low voter turnout that marred his first victory in 2019.
Tebboune, 78, is heavily favoured to see off moderate Islamist Abdelaali Hassani, 57, and socialist candidate Youcef Aouchiche, 41.