Algeria’s presidential campaign is officially kicking off Sunday with five candidates vying to replace the longtime leader pushed out in April amid sustained protests. Two former prime ministers, Ali Benflis and Abdelmadjid Tebboune, are among those running in the Dec. 12 election to replacing former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Big crowds took to the streets Friday for a 39th consecutive week to demand an end to Algerias post-colonial political system. Protesters said they dont trust those currently in power to ensure democratic elections, citing their past links to Bouteflika, the Associated Press reported. Benflis and Tebboune are considered the favorites of the vote. Candidates also include two former ministers, one of them a moderate Islamist, plus the head of a small party.