In hospital, Algeria's Bouteflika getting worse: Source

GENEVA

While receiving medical treatment in Switzerland, Algeria’s president is reportedly suffering worsening health, said sources at the Swiss hospital Saturday.

Abdelaziz Bouteflika, 81, has been getting medical treatment at Geneva University Hospital, but is getting worse, the sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Anadolu Agency.

His private jet was sent back to Algeria despite his family members remaining beside him, the sources added.

Last month, Algeria’s ruling National Liberation Front officially nominated the 81-year-old strongman -- who has ruled Algeria since 1999 -- to run in presidential elections slated for April 18.

Opposition leaders have repeatedly urged Bouteflika -- who in 2013 was treated for a blood clot in the brain -- to bow out of the contest.

Anti-Bouteflika demonstrations have since been reported in several Algerian provinces.

Writing by Maımaıtımıng Yılıxıatı