Tunisian President Kais Saied Dismisses Prime Minister Kamel Madouri Amid Economic Turmoil
Tunis: President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Madouri, his office announced on Friday, as the North African country grapples with major economic issues.
New Prime Minister Appointed
Madouri, a technocrat appointed last August as part of a cabinet reshuffle, was replaced by Sarra Zaafrani Zenzri, the former minister of public works, the presidency said. Zaafrani, 62, becomes Tunisia’s second woman premier after Najla Bouden, who was in the post from October 2021 to August 2023.
Economic Challenges
Tunisia is facing significant economic and financial difficulties, including sluggish growth and high unemployment. The country is deeply indebted, with debt hovering at around 80 percent of GDP, compared to 67 percent before Saied took office in 2019.
Cabinet Shuffle
Saied has appointed four different cabinets since 2021, often expressing dissatisfaction with the government’s performance. In August 2024, he appointed Madouri premier, replacing 19 other ministers, citing "the supreme interest of the state" and "national security" imperatives.
Political Climate
Madouri’s dismissal comes in a tense political climate, with dozens of Saied’s opponents imprisoned, some for two years, as well as businessmen and media figures. The presidency said there were no other cabinet changes apart from Salah Zouari, who was appointed public works minister as Zaafrani’s replacement.
Abuse Allegations
The United Nations has criticized the imprisonment of Saied’s political opponents, and rights groups decry a rollback on freedoms. In a video released before the announcement of the change of prime minister, Saied said, "It is time that every leader be held fully accountable, regardless of their position." He also referred to a series of protests and self-immolations that began in early March as "suspicious."
Trial of Opponents
The trial of around 40 high-profile defendants, including activists, politicians, lawyers, and media figures, began on March 4, facing charges of "terrorism" and plotting against the state. Saied’s defenders often say he has honored his pledge to fight corruption and inefficiency, but critics argue that he has used his power to target political opponents.
Conclusion
Tunisia is at a critical juncture, with its economy struggling to recover and political opponents facing imprisonment. The country’s future hangs in the balance, as President Kais Saied navigates the complex challenges facing the nation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the reason for Madouri’s dismissal?
Madouri’s dismissal is attributed to the country’s economic and financial difficulties, as well as Saied’s dissatisfaction with the government’s performance. - Who is the new prime minister?
Sarra Zaafrani Zenzri, the former minister of public works, becomes the new prime minister. - What are the challenges facing Tunisia?
Tunisia is struggling with economic growth, high unemployment, and deep debt, as well as political instability and repression. - What is the current political climate like in Tunisia?
The country is facing a tense political climate, with dozens of Saied’s opponents imprisoned, and rights groups decrying a rollback on freedoms.