Chadli Bendjedid vs Levy Mwanawasa

Bendjedid was elected president after the death of Houari Boumediene. His election marked a shift from the revolutionary era to a period of political and economic liberalization in Algeria.

After the October 1988 riots, Bendjedid introduced a new constitution that ended the one-party system and allowed for multiparty elections. He also implemented economic liberalization measures, moving away from state socialism.

Facing a likely victory by the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) in the second round of parliamentary elections, Bendjedid resigned under pressure from the military. His resignation triggered the Algerian Civil War, a decade-long conflict between the government and Islamist insurgents.

Mwanawasa won the presidential election as the candidate of the Movement for Multiparty Democracy, succeeding Frederick Chiluba. His victory was initially disputed but later confirmed by the Supreme Court.

Mwanawasa initiated a high-profile anti-corruption drive, including the prosecution of former president Frederick Chiluba for corruption. This marked a significant break from his predecessor and earned him international praise.

Mwanawasa won a second term with 43% of the vote in a multi-candidate election. The election was deemed largely free and fair by observers, though opposition parties alleged irregularities.

Mwanawasa suffered a stroke at the African Union summit in Egypt. He was flown to France for treatment but died in Paris on August 19, 2008. His death triggered a presidential by-election.