Students have led many of the demonstrations against Bouteflika. 

…Many protesters say the ailing president, who suffered a stroke in 2013, is a puppet leader used by a small group of civilian and military figures to rule the country. As The New York Times noted, Bouteflika has not publicly addressed the country in seven years. “Barely able to talk because of his stroke, he is represented at government rallies by his framed portrait, known as ‘The Frame.’ “

Algeria’s stagnant economy has added to the discontent, driving young Algerians into the streets.

Algeria’s Bouteflika Returns From Switzerland Facing Mass Protests : NPR

hmmmm