Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri, appointing Sara Zaafarani in his place due to economic struggles and increasing migration pressures. Saied has criticized ministerial performance, indicating high public expectations and recently ousting the Finance Minister. Tunisia faces an economic crisis characterized by stagnant growth and critical shortages, alongside rising tensions regarding migrants from sub-Saharan Africa.
Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri, appointing Sara Zaafarani, an engineer and former Minister of Equipment and Housing, as his successor. This change comes amid significant economic challenges and increasing migration from sub-Saharan African nations. Notably, Zaafarani marks the third prime minister in under two years.
In recent months, President Saied has been vocal regarding the inadequate performance of various ministers, asserting that they have not met the expectations of the Tunisian populace. Last month, Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri was also removed from her position.
The nation’s economy has struggled, with growth rates remaining below 1.4% over the past year. Tunisia’s public finances are in crisis, leading to shortages of essential goods such as sugar, rice, and coffee.
Saied stated, “We will continue the liberation battle until justice prevails for all citizens … We will continue to thwart all conspiracies,” during a National Security Council meeting.
Tunisia is grappling with an unprecedented migrant crisis, with thousands of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa arriving in hopes of reaching Europe. Many are currently residing in makeshift camps in Amra and Jbeniana forests after being barred from continuing their journey.
Local tensions have risen as migrants encounter opposition from residents advocating for their deportation. Human rights organizations have condemned the authorities for employing racist rhetoric against these migrants.
Since consolidating power in 2021, when he dissolved the elected parliament and began ruling by decree, Saied has faced accusations of orchestrating a coup from opposition leaders.
In summary, the dismissal of Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri and the appointment of Sara Zaafarani occur against the backdrop of Tunisia’s ongoing economic difficulties and a growing migrant crisis. President Kais Saied’s government is under scrutiny for its handling of ministerial performance and the rising tensions surrounding migration. The situation remains complex, with significant implications for the nation’s future governance and social stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
