Bouteflika... 10th president-for-life of Algeria. He was elected in 1999 and is currently on his third or fourth term. Maybe it's the fifth....
, coppers at the scene said, in the biggest demonstration since unrest erupted six weeks ago.
In at least one location, police opened fire with tear gas and rubber bullets, chasing and beating demonstrators, after youths hurled stones at them, a Rooters journalist said.
The huge turnout came days after the military called for the long-serving leader's removal to end a growing political crisis.
State TV showed protests in several other cities as well.
The protests have been largely peaceful but have put pressure on the army to stabilize the country.
While many people are against Bouteflika and his shrinking inner circle, they also reject the army's intervention in civilian political life.
"Street pressure will continue until the system goes," said student Mohammed Djemai, 25, as hundreds of riot police kept an eye on the protests and helicopters flew overhead.
"We have only one word to say today, all the gang must go immediately, game over," said Ali, a merchant, as other protesters shouted "the people want the fall of the regime".
Families stood on balconies above the streets cheering the marchers -- Algerians of all social classes, including journalists, doctors, teachers and homeless people.
The crowds shared out dates and water and bought ice cream from street vendors.