Avant-Garde des Libertes warns Ailing Algerian President’s irresponsible decision is capable of pushing country further into political, economic, social crisis.
"Of course, I am no longer the same physical force as before - something that I have never hidden from the people," said Bouteflika, according to the APS news agency, as he apparently broke his silence on his intentions for the April 18 poll.
His main opponent, former prime minister Ali Benflis, has not yet said if he will run in the election but his party - the Avant-Garde des Libertes or Avant Garde of Freedom - on Sunday rejected Bouteflika's candidature.
Former prime minister Abdelmalek Sellal - who ran the incumbent's successful presidential bids in 2004, 2009 and 2014 - has once again been named campaign manager.
The country's four-party ruling coalition - which includes the president's National Liberation Front (FLN) - backed Bouteflika earlier this month.