Finally, and especially worrisome, is the possibility that entirely inappropriate lessons might be drawn about the certitude the West can have concerning Gorbachev's hold on power and his control over the Soviet military.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy

There's general consensus that he wants, like all dictators, to strengthen his hold on power and to secure the support of the military.

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Our correspondent says Algerians know that parliament is toothless, unable to hold accountable either the government or the military clique which holds real power in the country.

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However, he intends to hold on to power by keeping the crucial post of head of the Central Military Commission.

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