Tunisian President Dismisses Prime Minister Amid Economic and Migration Challenges

Tunisian President Kais Saied has sacked Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri and appointed Sara Zaafarani amid economic struggles and a migrant crisis. Zaafarani is the third premier in two years, following Saied’s criticisms of ministerial performance. Economic growth is stagnant, and there are significant shortages of essential goods. Saied faces mounting domestic pressure from both local residents and human rights organizations regarding the treatment of migrants.

Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri just under a year after his appointment, appointing Sara Zaafarani as the new prime minister. This change occurs amid an economic downturn and an influx of migrants from sub-Saharan African nations seeking to reach Italy. Zaafarani, who previously served as the Minister of Equipment and Housing, marks the third individual to hold the prime ministerial position in less than two years.

In recent months, President Saied has been vocal in his criticism of government officials’ performances, stating that they are not meeting the expected standards. Previously, he dismissed Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri, highlighting his dissatisfaction with governmental effectiveness. Economic growth in Tunisia has stagnated at a meager 1.4 percent, exacerbating public financial crises that have led to critical shortages of essential goods, including sugar, rice, and coffee.

During a National Security Council meeting, President Saied proclaimed, “We will continue the liberation battle until justice prevails for all citizens … We will continue to thwart all conspiracies.” Concurrently, Tunisia is grappling with significant challenges posed by a migrant crisis, as thousands of individuals from sub-Saharan Africa are attempting to migrate to Europe.

Many migrants are now residing in makeshift shelters in areas like Amra and Jbeniana, following the authorities’ crackdown on their plans to cross the Mediterranean. Tensions have escalated between the local populace, who are calling for deportation of migrants, and human rights groups, which assert that the government is engaging in incitement against these individuals. Since 2021, Saied has concentrated power by dismantling the elected parliament and ruling by decree, an act that opposition leaders have characterized as a coup.

In conclusion, the recent dismissal of Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri amid Tunisia’s economic struggles and escalating migration issues underscores President Kais Saied’s heightened governance challenges. The nomination of Sara Zaafarani marks a significant political shift as the country grapples independently with financial turmoil and public dissent surrounding migrant treatment. Saied’s consolidation of power remains a contentious point, reflecting wider governmental instability.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com