Tunisia's president dismisses third prime minister in two years

Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri, less than a year after his appointment, amid escalating economic and political turmoil. The decision, announced late Thursday, comes as Tunisia faces mounting challenges, including an influx of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa.

Saied replaced Maddouri with Sara Zaafarani, an engineer who has served as Minister of Equipment and Housing since 2021. This appointment marks Zaafarani as Tunisia’s third prime minister in under two years and the second woman to hold the position in the country’s history.

Following his re-election in 2024, which saw low voter turnout, Saied has struggled to stabilize the economy while intensifying political repression. His administration has imprisoned numerous opposition figures, businessmen, and journalists. Under Tunisia’s governance system, the president holds the authority to remove ministers and judges at will.

Saied has expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of government officials, accusing them of failing to meet national expectations. Just last month, he dismissed Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri. Addressing Zaafarani in a televised meeting, Saied urged her to enhance coordination within the government and overcome bureaucratic hurdles to address public concerns.

Tunisians have voiced frustration over deteriorating public services, from healthcare to transportation. Speaking at a National Security Council meeting, Saied condemned the alleged corruption within public institutions, calling for accountability at all levels. Meanwhile, the country’s economy remains stagnant, with growth failing to exceed 1.4% in the past year. Severe financial struggles have led to shortages of essential goods, including sugar, rice, and coffee.

Rising Migration Crisis

Tunisia is also grappling with a worsening migrant crisis as thousands of sub-Saharan Africans attempt to use the country as a gateway to Europe. Many migrants are stranded in makeshift camps in southern towns like Amra and Jbeniana after authorities blocked their passage across the Mediterranean.

Tensions have risen between migrants and local communities, with some residents demanding their expulsion. Human rights organizations have accused the government of fueling anti-migrant sentiment through inflammatory rhetoric.

Since assuming sweeping powers in 2021—dissolving the elected parliament and taking control of the judiciary—Saied has faced accusations of authoritarianism. The opposition continues to label his actions as a coup, as Tunisia navigates one of its most challenging political and economic periods.