In a dramatic shift in Tunisia’s leadership, President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri less than a year after his appointment.
The decision comes amid a faltering economy, mounting public dissatisfaction, and an unprecedented migrant crisis.
Maddouri’s removal is the latest in a series of high-profile government changes under Saied, who has faced increasing pressure to address the country’s deepening challenges.
Maddouri has been replaced by Sara Zaafarani, an engineer and former Minister of Equipment and Housing since 2021. Zaafarani becomes Tunisia’s third prime minister in under two years, reflecting the instability in the country’s leadership amid mounting social and economic problems.
In recent months, President Saied has been vocal in criticizing the performance of his government, blaming ministers for not meeting the expectations of the Tunisian people. Last month, Saied sacked Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri as part of his broader effort to reshape the government.
Speaking after the announcement of Zaafarani’s appointment, Saied urged the new prime minister to coordinate government efforts more effectively and address the growing obstacles facing the country. In a speech at a National Security Council meeting, Saied also promised to crack down on the rising presence of criminal gangs in public services, which have plagued the country’s health, transport, and utility sectors.
Tunisia’s economy has struggled with growth of just 1.4% over the past year, while its public finances face severe crisis. The country is experiencing shortages of essential commodities such as sugar, rice, and coffee, further exacerbating public frustration.
Saied’s decision to sack Maddouri is part of a broader pattern of consolidating power, following his controversial 2021 decision to dissolve the elected parliament and rule by decree.
