Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika has reportedly agreed to hand over power to an elected president after the elections are held later this year.

The announcement was made by the North African country’s deputy prime minister Ramtane Lamamra, who also said that the opposition will be drafted into the cabinet that will oversee a presidential vote.

Algeria has been dogged by protests for several weeks now following President Bouteflika’s declaration that he will seek a fifth term.

Moving to quell the protests, the long-serving leader pulled out of the race last week but also postponed the election which was to take place in April.

The protests persisted however, with thousands still taking to the streets to demand a new government.

Bouteflika, who has been in power since 1999, promised political reforms before the elections are held.