Tunisian President Kais Saied Announces Sweeping Cabinet Reshuffle Ahead of October Election
On Sunday, Tunisian President Kais Saied unveiled a significant cabinet reshuffle, replacing 19 ministers including key positions such as defence, foreign affairs, and the economy. This move comes as Saied prepares for the upcoming presidential election on October 6.
The reshuffle sees Khaled Shili appointed as the new Defence Minister and Mohamed Ali Nafti taking on the role of Foreign Affairs Minister. This decision follows Saied’s earlier dismissal of Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani, who was replaced by Kamel Maddouri, the former Social Affairs Minister.
The abrupt reshuffle also includes changes to three state secretaries, marking a significant overhaul of the government just days before the presidential election. The presidency’s statement on the reshuffle provided little detail, simply noting, “This morning, August 25, 2024, the President of the Republic has decided to make a governmental change.”
Saied, who was elected in 2019, has consolidated power since a sweeping power grab in 2021 and is now campaigning for a second term. He frames his candidacy as a “war of liberation and self-determination,” aimed at establishing a “new republic.” This rhetoric comes amidst a crackdown on political opposition, with several of Saied’s rivals currently imprisoned or facing legal charges.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised concerns over the state of Tunisian democracy, reporting that at least eight prospective candidates for the upcoming election have been prosecuted, convicted, or imprisoned by the authorities.
This latest development underscores the tension and uncertainty surrounding Tunisia’s political landscape as the election approaches.
