Tunisian president sacks prime minister amid economic and migration crisis

Tunisian President Kais Saied has dismissed Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri. This decision comes less than a year after Maddouri's appointment. The country is facing a struggling economy and an increase in migrants from sub-Saharan Africa.

Sara Zaafarani has been named as the new prime minister. She is an engineer and served as the minister of equipment and housing since 2021. Zaafarani is Tunisia's third prime minister in under two years.

Recently, Saied criticized many ministers for poor performance. He stated that they have not met the required standards. Last month, he also removed Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri.

In a meeting shared on Facebook, Saied urged Zaafarani to improve government coordination. He wants her to overcome obstacles and meet the people's expectations.

Tunisians have expressed dissatisfaction with declining public services. Issues span health care, transportation, and utilities.

Saied noted that "criminal gangs" are active in public facilities. He emphasized the need to hold officials accountable for negligence or complicity.

The economy has struggled, with growth not exceeding 1.4% last year. Public finances are in crisis, leading to shortages of essential goods like sugar, rice, and coffee.

Saied declared that they will continue fighting for justice for all citizens. He vowed to thwart any conspiracies against the government.

Tunisia faces criticism over a migrant crisis as thousands arrive from sub-Saharan Africa. Many migrants are trying to reach Europe but are now living in tents in southern towns like Amra and Jbeniana.

Local residents often clash with migrants who want them deported from their areas. Human rights groups accuse authorities of promoting racist rhetoric against migrants.

In 2021, Saied took extra powers by shutting down parliament and ruling by decree. His actions were labeled a coup by opposition members.