Protesters crammed streets and squares in the capital after Friday prayers, many draped in Algeria's red, green and white flag. Demonstrations also took place in Bejaia, Oran, Batna, Tizi Ouzou and other cities.

Witnesses estimated the crowd at hundreds of thousands of people but there was no police number given.

Bouteflika on Monday reversed a decision to stand for another term after weeks of demonstrations against him but stopped short of relinquishing office and said he would stay on until a new constitution is adopted.

Algerians quickly rejected his offer and demanded that the 82-year-old hand over power to a young generation of leaders who say they can create jobs and stamp out corruption

"Those who think we are tired are wrong. Our protests will not stop," said doctor Madjid Benzida, 37, as police blocked streets leading to government offices and parliament.

Bouteflika has been losing allies in recent days since returning from medical treatment in Switzerland.

Some parents had brought children to Friday's demonstration. "I want a better future," said Mohamed Kemime, 10, draped in a national flag.

One of Algeria's most influential clerics appealed for patience.

"Let's be optimistic, Algeria needs to overcome its crisis," said Mohamed Abdelkader Haider from an Algiers mosque.

The new prime minister, Noureddine Bedoui, said on Thursday he would form a temporary government of technocrats and others to work towards political change, and he urged the opposition to join in a dialogue.

Australian Associated Press