Algerians are worried about the secrecy surrounding President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s health. The condition of Mr. Bouteflika, 78, is so uncertain as he remains sequestered, almost becoming a replay of the late Yar Adua’s health situation. Nigeria’s late President Umaru Yar’Adua grew so weak while in office and had to miss in action for long, creating tension in Africa’s most populous nation.

The status of health amongst African leaders must be demystified. This will attract support from the electorate and warrant time off duty to avoid stress. Africans have a right to know about the health conditions of their leaders as running the nation needs sobriety. The leaders should also invest in their respective countries’ health infrastructure to better the lives of their citizens, create confidence in local health facilities and avoid unnecessary spending on treatment abroad.