Tunisia’s President Dismisses Third Prime Minister Amid Ongoing Crises

Tunisia’s President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri as the country confronts worsening economic and political crises. Maddouri’s replacement, Sara Zaafarani, marks the third prime ministerial change in less than two years. Saied’s leadership has faced strong criticism for political repression and economic decline, while the nation grapples with a significant influx of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa.

Tunisia’s President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri, marking the third prime ministerial change in under two years amid ongoing economic and political turmoil. This decision follows an escalation of migrant and refugee arrivals from sub-Saharan Africa, further complicating the situation within the country. Saied has appointed Sara Zaafarani, a seasoned engineer and former minister of equipment and housing, to replace Maddouri.

Since his re-election in 2024, President Saied has struggled to stabilize Tunisia’s declining economy, facing criticism for political repression that has seen numerous opposition figures, businessmen, and journalists incarcerated. With full authority to terminate ministers and judges, Saied has taken significant action to address government performance, recently firing Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri.

Zaafarani becomes Tunisia’s second female prime minister and the third in a short span, emphasizing a significant shift in leadership. Saied has publicly criticized ministers for failing to meet expectations, urging Zaafarani to expedite governmental coordination and address public service complaints. Citizens have reported deteriorating health, transportation, and utility services, calling for accountability among officials involved.

Despite an economic growth rate of just 1.4% in the past year, the country’s finances remain in significant crisis, precipitating shortages of essential goods like sugar and rice. Saied remains committed to social justice, stating a determination to continue fighting for the rights of all citizens and overcome perceived conspiracies against stability.

Additionally, Tunisia faces international scrutiny regarding an influx of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, who are often left in precarious living conditions, such as makeshift camps. Tensions have erupted between locals and migrants, with accusations of systemic racism directed at authorities from human rights groups. Saied’s acquisition of enhanced powers in 2021, marked by the shutdown of parliament and judicial control, continues to be contested by his opponents, who view these measures as authoritarian actions.

In conclusion, the dismissal of Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri by President Kais Saied signifies the ongoing political instability in Tunisia, characterized by repeated leadership changes during a time of economic distress. The appointment of Sara Zaafarani highlights efforts to revitalize government performance amidst a backdrop of public dissatisfaction. As Tunisia navigates challenges such as a migrant crisis and economic hardship, Saied’s actions reflect both urgency and controversy within the governing structure.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com