Algerians chant slogans and march with protest signs as they gather for an anti-government demonstration in the capital Algiers on April 12, 2019. (Photo: AFP)

ALGIERS, May 17 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of demonstrators across Algeria took to the streets for the 13th consecutive Friday to claim stepping down of the government, as they reiterated refusal of the presidential elections slated for July 4.

They urged rendering back the power to the people after a transition period that would allow for holding fair and free election. This process has been claimed by most political parties of opposition.

The protests started on Feb. 22 when lots of Algerians opposed former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's bid for a fifth presidential term.

On April 2, Bouteflika resigned under the pressure, and cancelled the presidential election scheduled for April 18.

The head of the upper house of parliament, Abdelkader Bensalah, was then named interim president for 90 days, according to the Algerian Constitution.

Bensalah has announced the organization of a presidential election within three months.