Tunisia Faces Political Turmoil as President Sacks Third Prime Minister
Tunisia is once again in the spotlight as President Kais Saied dismisses Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri, marking the third prime minister to be sacked in less than two years. The move comes amid mounting economic and political challenges, including a growing migrant crisis and public discontent over deteriorating services.
Since assuming sweeping powers in 2021, President Kais Saied has faced criticism for his authoritarian style of governance, which includes ruling by decree and sidelining opposition figures. The dismissal of Maddouri and the appointment of Sara Zaafarani as the new prime minister highlight the ongoing instability in Tunisia, a country once seen as a beacon of democracy in the Arab world.
The decision to replace Maddouri was announced late on Thursday, with Zaafarani, an engineer and former housing minister, stepping into the role. This makes her Tunisia’s second female prime minister in history. However, her appointment comes at a time when the country is grappling with severe economic hardships, political repression, and an unprecedented migrant crisis.
Tunisia’s Economic Crisis Deepens Under President Kais saied’s Leadership
Tunisia’s economy has been in freefall, with growth rates barely exceeding 1.4% over the past year. The country is facing a severe public finance crisis, leading to shortages of essential commodities such as sugar, rice, and coffee. These shortages have exacerbated public frustration, with many Tunisians complaining about the declining quality of public services, from healthcare to transportation.
President Saied has repeatedly criticized his ministers for failing to meet the expectations of the Tunisian people. Last month, he dismissed Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri, citing poor performance. In a meeting broadcast on the presidency’s Facebook page, Saied urged the new prime minister, Sara Zaafarani, to “coordinate government action and overcome obstacles to meet the expectations of the Tunisian people.”
Despite these efforts, the economic outlook remains bleak. Unemployment rates are high, and the country’s debt continues to grow. Many Tunisians feel that the government has failed to address their basic needs, leading to widespread discontent and protests.
Political Repression and Opposition Crackdown in Tunisia
Since his re-election in 2024, which saw a low voter turnout, President Saied has intensified his crackdown on political opposition. Many opposition figures, businessmen, and journalists have been imprisoned, creating an atmosphere of fear and repression. Critics argue that Saied’s actions undermine Tunisia’s democratic institutions and concentrate power in the hands of the presidency.
President Kais Saied’s decision to dissolve the elected parliament in 2021 and rule by decree was widely condemned as a coup by the opposition. Since then, he has assumed control over the judiciary, further consolidating his authority. This has led to growing concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the rise of authoritarianism in Tunisia.
In a speech at a National Security Council meeting on Friday, Saied vowed to continue his “liberation battle” until justice prevails for all citizens. He also accused criminal gangs of operating in public facilities and called for accountability among officials. However, many see these statements as attempts to deflect attention from the government’s failures.
Tunisia’s Migrant Crisis Sparks International Criticism
Tunisia is also facing widespread criticism over its handling of an unprecedented migrant crisis. Thousands of migrants and refugees from sub-Saharan Africa have arrived in the country, hoping to cross the Mediterranean into Europe. However, authorities have prevented many from leaving, forcing them to live in makeshift tents in forests near southern towns like Amra and Jbeniana.
The presence of migrants has led to frequent clashes with residents, who accuse them of straining already limited resources. Human rights groups have condemned the government’s rhetoric, accusing it of inciting racism and xenophobia. They argue that the authorities’ harsh treatment of migrants violates international human rights standards.
The migrant crisis has further complicated Tunisia’s domestic challenges, adding pressure on an already fragile economy and deepening social tensions. Many fear that the situation could escalate if the government fails to adopt a more humane and effective approach to migration.
Tunisia’s Future Hangs in the Balance
As Tunisia grapples with economic hardship, political repression, and a growing migrant crisis, the future of the country remains uncertain. President Saied’s dismissal of Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri and the appointment of Sara Zaafarani reflect the ongoing instability in the country.
While Zaafarani’s appointment as Tunisia’s second female prime minister is a historic milestone, whether she can address the country’s myriad challenges remains to be seen. The Tunisian people are growing increasingly impatient, demanding better governance and improved living conditions.
For now, Tunisia stands at a crossroads, with its democratic aspirations hanging in the balance. The international community is watching closely, hoping that the country can overcome its crises and return to stability and progress.
