Saturday, March 22, 2025 - Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Madouri, replacing him with former public works minister Sarra Zaafrani Zenzri as the country struggles with economic and political turmoil. The announcement, made by the presidency on Friday, marks yet another government shake-up under Saied, who has repeatedly reshuffled his cabinet since consolidating power in 2021.
Zaafrani, 62, becomes Tunisia’s second female prime minister and takes
office at a time of deep financial strain, with sluggish growth, soaring
unemployment, and debt levels now at 80% of GDP. The president emphasized the
need for more effective governance, urging officials to remove obstacles
hindering progress.
The move comes amid rising political tensions, with dozens of opposition
figures, activists, and journalists jailed on charges of conspiring against the
state. The United Nations and rights groups have criticized Saied’s
administration for its crackdown on dissent, warning of a decline in democratic
freedoms.
Saied, who was re-elected in 2024 with over 90% of the vote but a low
turnout of under 30%, has defended his leadership as necessary to combat
corruption and inefficiency. However, critics argue that his rule has weakened
institutions and fueled instability.
Tunisians continue to face economic hardship, with persistent shortages
of basic goods and minimal economic growth. As Zaafrani steps into her new
role, all eyes will be on whether she can bring stability or if Tunisia’s
political and economic struggles will deepen further.
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