Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri, appointing Sara Zaafarani as his successor. This marks the third prime ministerial change in less than two years amid economic difficulties and a growing migrant crisis. Saied’s government faces criticism for poor public services and has been accused of political repression.
Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Kamel Maddouri, marking the third prime minister to be removed in under two years, amid ongoing economic and political crises. His replacement, Sara Zaafarani, has a background as an engineer and served as the Minister of Equipment and Housing since 2021. This change occurs against the backdrop of increasing migration from sub-Saharan Africa and public dissatisfaction with deteriorating services.
Since Saied’s re-election in 2024, Tunisia’s economy has struggled significantly, with indications of political repression against opposition figures and professionals. With full authority to appoint and dismiss ministers, Saied’s administration has faced intense scrutiny over its handling of governance. Zaafarani’s appointment positions her as Tunisia’s second female prime minister, reflecting a notable shift in leadership.
President Saied has openly criticized his cabinet members for their performance. He has emphasized the need to address public expectations and has recently dismissed several ministers, including Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri. During a recent meeting, Saied encouraged Zaafarani to enhance government coordination to fulfill the expectations of Tunisian citizens.
The current political climate is tense, with complaints regarding public services and allegations against criminal organizations within some sectors. Saied stated the urgency to hold officials accountable for any negligence or complicity in these matters. Economically, Tunisia has faced stagnation and a public finance crisis, resulting in commodity shortages.
Additionally, the country is encountering rising criticism regarding a migrant situation, as thousands from sub-Saharan Africa attempt to enter Tunisia en route to Europe, facing considerable hardships. Reports indicate clashes between migrants and locals, leading to accusations against the government for inciting racism against these groups. Saied’s consolidation of power, initiated in 2021, continues to be contested, perceived by opposition as a coup against the democratic process.
In conclusion, President Kais Saied’s dismissal of Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri illustrates ongoing instability within Tunisia’s political and economic landscape. As the country struggles with public dissatisfaction and a mounting migrant crisis, the new Prime Minister, Sara Zaafarani, is tasked with confronting significant challenges. The administration’s response to these issues will be crucial in addressing both governance effectiveness and public trust.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
