Tunisia’s President Dismisses Third Prime Minister Amid Ongoing Crisis

Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri, appointing Sara Zaafarani as his successor amidst escalating economic and political crises. Saied has criticized government performance and faces widespread grievances over public services alongside an increasing migrant crisis.

In a significant political shift, Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri, marking the third prime ministerial change in under two years. Maddouri’s ousting comes amidst growing economic and political challenges, exacerbated by an influx of migrants and refugees from sub-Saharan Africa. Saied announced Douadi’s replacement by Sara Zaafarani, an experienced engineer and the current minister of equipment and housing since 2021.

President Saied has faced considerable pressure since his lackluster re-election in 2024 to stabilize the economy and address rampant political repression. Many opposition figures, including businessmen and journalists, remain imprisoned. The president holds the authority to relieve ministers and judges from their positions, exercising this power frequently in response to perceived inefficiencies.

Zaafarani becomes the second female prime minister in Tunisia’s history, succeeding Maddouri, who served less than a year. The president has publicly criticized the past performance of various members of his cabinet, including the recent dismissal of Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri due to unsatisfactory results. During a livestreamed meeting, Saied urged Zaafarani to “further coordinate government action and overcome obstacles to meet the expectations of the Tunisian people.”

Concerns about deteriorating public services persist among Tunisians, spanning sectors such as health care, transportation, and utilities. Saied acknowledged these issues, asserting that “criminal gangs are active in many public facilities” and emphasizing the need for accountability among officials. In regards to economic performance, growth has stagnated at just 1.4 percent over the past year, exacerbating a severe public finance crisis that has resulted in shortages of essential commodities.

Tunisia is currently grappling with an ongoing migrant crisis, attracting thousands from sub-Saharan Africa attempting to reach Europe. Migrants and refugees are often found in precarious living situations, facing clashes with local residents who demand their deportation. Moreover, human rights organizations have condemned the government’s racially charged rhetoric toward migrants, claiming it incites violence. In 2021, Saied expanded his authority by dissolving the elected parliament, initiating a governing style viewed by the opposition as a coup against democratic norms.

In conclusion, Tunisia is experiencing a tumultuous political landscape as President Kais Saied enforces significant changes in leadership, having appointed Sara Zaafarani as Prime Minister. This transition occurs amid ongoing economic troubles, heightened political repression, and a migrant crisis. Saied’s actions reflect his struggle to address the pressing needs and expectations of the Tunisian populace while managing criticisms of his administration’s conduct.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com