President Kais Saied of Tunisia has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri, replacing him with Sara Zaafarani amid ongoing political and economic crises. This marks the third prime ministerial change in less than two years as Tunisia faces rising public dissatisfaction and a migrant crisis. Saied has criticized ministerial performance and emphasized the need for accountability and improved governmental coordination.
Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Kamel Maddouri from his position as Prime Minister, marking the third such dismissal in under two years amid ongoing economic downturns and political instability. Maddouri’s replacement, Sara Zaafarani, who has served as the Minister of Equipment and Housing since 2021, now faces the formidable task of addressing the challenges posed by a rising influx of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa.
The announcement, made late on Thursday, follows President Saied’s struggle to stabilize the nation’s economy since his re-election in 2024, which saw a low voter turnout. Political repression has intensified, resulting in the imprisonment of opposition figures, journalists, and business people. Notably, Saied has the authority to dismiss ministers and judges at will, a power he has exercised frequently.
With Zaafarani assuming office, she becomes Tunisia’s third prime minister within a brief period and its second female prime minister. Recently, President Saied has criticized the performance of several ministers, citing their failure to meet public expectations. This follows his recent dismissal of Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri, suggesting a broader shift in governmental accountability.
During a televised meeting, Saied urged Zaafarani to improve government coordination and address the rising public dissatisfaction with essential services, including health care, transport, and utilities. The president noted significant dysfunction in public facilities also tied to the activities of criminal gangs.
Economic conditions in Tunisia have stagnated, with growth not surpassing 1.4 percent over the past year. The country is grappling with severe financial challenges, leading to shortages of basic goods such as sugar, rice, and coffee. Saied reaffirmed his commitment to combating economic injustices and conspiracies that hinder citizens’ welfare.
Currently, Tunisia is confronting a migrant crisis, with thousands from sub-Saharan Africa seeking to cross into Europe. Many are stranded in tent camps in southern towns, a situation exacerbated by public tensions and accusations of racist rhetoric against migrants from local human rights groups. Saied’s earlier assumption of decree powers in 2021 was characterized by the opposition as a coup, contributing to the current complexities of governance.
The dismissal of Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri by President Kais Saied reflects ongoing political and economic turbulence in Tunisia. President Saied’s decisions illustrate a government under increased scrutiny for its effectiveness amid public dissatisfaction. The newly appointed Sara Zaafarani is tasked with navigating the nation’s challenges, including economic stagnation and a burgeoning migrant crisis. Saied’s emphasis on accountability and public service improvement underscores the urgent need for effective governance during these crises.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
