Algerian authorities arrested prominent opposition leader Karim Tabbou on Sept. 11, TSA Algerie reported.

What Happened: Algerian authorities arrested prominent opposition leader Karim Tabbou on Sept. 11, TSA Algerie reported.

Why It Matters: Arrests of opposition leaders have occurred rarely in recent months despite a wave of protests in Algeria, but Tabbou’s detention could signal a more forceful crackdown on dissidents and opposition figures in the future.

Background: The Algerian military is attempting to organize presidential elections by the end of the year through the interim government, which has been in place since longtime President Abdel Aziz Bouteflika was forced out in spring. The country’s opposition fears that the military and the ruling National Liberation Front could use an early vote to consolidate the political status quo and prevent future reforms.