The National Independent Authority for Elections has begun reviewing candidacy files for the local elections scheduled for November 28, 2026, following the October 8 deadline for submissions. Political parties encountered significant challenges in finalizing their lists due to voter apathy, particularly among youth and women, and concerns over strict eligibility criteria. A key point of contention is Article 184 of the Electoral Code, which addresses concerns regarding illicit funding, with critics arguing the criteria for exclusion remain ambiguous. To facilitate the process, authorities have relaxed requirements for female representation and allowed incumbent officials to switch party affiliations. Furthermore, a new unified numerical system for ballot paper placement has been introduced to ensure transparency. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune had previously called upon young citizens to take responsibility for political life, starting from the municipal and regional levels.