Algiers (AFP) - Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika flew to the southern French city of Grenoble on Monday for what the presidency said were "periodic" medical checks.
The 79-year-old had a stroke in 2013 which weakened his mobility and ability to speak. He now uses a wheelchair and works from his residence in Zeralda, west of Algiers.
Bouteflika went to Grenoble "for a private visit during which he will undergo periodic medical checks", a statement said.
No further details were available about where he will undergo the checks in the city where he was also treated in November 2014 and December last year.
In April this year, he also underwent "routine medical checks" in Switzerland, the APS news agency reported at the time, again citing a presidency statement.
There are regular rumours in Algeria about the state of the president's health, with opposition leaders quick to evoke the idea of a "power vacuum".
Bouteflika has led Algeria for the past 17 years. In 2014, his decision to seek a fourth mandate sparked criticism from those who questioned his ability to rule.
He did not campaign and cast his ballot from a wheelchair, but still won 81 percent of the vote.
Miracles Aboagye arrest: 'You looted and your reaction is that the tables will t...
Police arrest two with 73 parcels of suspected cannabis, reject GH¢300,000 bribe
NACOC traces 73 assets linked to suspected drug traffickers
Government seeks financial clearance to recruit 400 scientists – Armah Kofi-Buah
Ya‑Naa Abubakari II laid to rest at Gbewaa Palace
NPP will reinstate workers unlawfully sacked by NDC government - Chairman COKA
'Neglecting grassroots dangerous' – GFL warns NDC, NPP
'No money, no vote' — Bongo NPP delegates tell contestants in constituency execu...
NAM1 files witness statements in Menzgold trial, seeks to rely on seven defence ...
Miracles Aboagye’s wife raises health concerns over husband's detention by EOCO
