Tunisian President Dismisses Prime Minister Amid Economic and Migration Crisis
Tunisian President Kais Saied has terminated Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri and appointed Sara Zaafarani, the third prime minister in less than two years, amid economic struggles and a significant migration crisis from sub-Saharan Africa. Saied criticized his ministers for inadequate performance, as the nation faces a fiscal crisis and public discontent over commodity shortages.
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 as Tunisia grapples with economic difficulties and a significant increase in migration from sub-Saharan African countries. Ms. Zaafarani, an engineer and former minister of Equipment and Housing, marks the third prime ministerial change in under two years.
In recent months, President Saied has publicly criticized several ministers for failing to meet expected performance standards, citing high public expectations. He had previously removed Sihem Boughdiri from her position as Finance Minister last month due to the ongoing economic challenges.
During the past year, the nation’s economic growth has stagnated at 1.4 percent, leading to a fiscal crisis and shortages of essential commodities such as sugar, rice, and coffee. President Saied expressed his commitment to justice and societal welfare, stating, “We will continue the liberation battle until justice prevails for all citizens … We will continue to thwart all conspiracies” during a recent National Security Council meeting.
Tunisia’s handling of the ongoing migrant crisis has also drawn extensive criticism, as thousands of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa attempt to reach the Italian coast. Many are currently living in makeshift tents in forests after being prevented from boarding boats to Europe.
Conflicts have arisen between local residents and migrants, with the former calling for deportation while local human rights organizations have condemned what they perceive as racist rhetoric from authorities. Additionally, President Saied’s consolidation of power in 2021, when he dissolved the elected parliament and began ruling by decree, has been characterized as a coup by the opposition.
In summary, the recent dismissal of Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri by President Kais Saied highlights the ongoing instability in Tunisia due to economic challenges and a worsening migration crisis. With Sara Zaafarani assuming leadership, the country faces heightened scrutiny as it navigates these pressing issues, coupled with internal criticisms of governmental performance and accountability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
