Tunisian President Kais Saied has sacked Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri and appointed Sara Zaafarani amidst economic struggles and a migrant crisis. Economic growth remains low, and essential commodity shortages are prevalent. Saied has faced criticism for ministerial performance and ongoing tensions with sub-Saharan migrants seeking passage to Europe, coupled with accusations of inciting racial hostility.
On a significant political note, Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri less than a year after his appointment, appointing Sara Zaafarani as his successor. This decision comes amid economic turmoil and an escalating influx of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa into Tunisia. Zaafarani, who has been an engineer and the Minister of Equipment and Housing since 2021, becomes the third prime minister in under two years.
In recent months, President Saied has publicly criticized ministers for failing to meet the expectations of the Tunisian populace, indicating the urgent need for improved governance. He notably dismissed Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri last month, underscoring a trend of dissatisfaction with his administration’s effectiveness.
The country’s economic situation is dire, with growth stagnating at just 1.4 percent over the past year. Tunisia’s public finances are in crisis, resulting in significant shortages of essential commodities such as sugar, rice, and coffee, further exacerbating public discontent.
During a National Security Council meeting, Saied asserted, “We will continue the liberation battle until justice prevails for all citizens … We will continue to thwart all conspiracies.” This statement reflects his ongoing commitment to address national challenges.
Tunisia is also experiencing a severe and unprecedented migrant crisis, as thousands of sub-Saharan Africans seek passage to Europe, particularly to the Italian coast. Many migrants are residing in makeshift camps in forests, such as those in Amra and Jbeniana, following government actions to prevent them from reaching Europe by sea.
The situation has led to tensions between local residents and migrants, with some residents advocating for their deportation, while human rights groups criticize the government for fostering a climate of racial hostility. In the shift of political power, Saied has centralized authority after shutting down the elected parliament in 2021, a move that was termed a coup by opposition parties.
In conclusion, President Kais Saied’s dismissal of Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri and the appointment of Sara Zaafarani reflect ongoing political and economic challenges in Tunisia, including severe public dissatisfaction and a growing migrant crisis. Saied’s administration is under scrutiny due to economic stagnation, increasing commodity shortages, and rising tensions between migrants and local communities, underscoring the need for effective governance and humanitarian consideration.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
