Title: The dismissal of Tunisian Prime Minister Najla Bouden: a decision with multiple challenges
Introduction :
In a surprising decision, Tunisian President Kaïs Saïed terminated the functions of Prime Minister Najla Bouden. This decision comes against a backdrop of a bread crisis in the country and political disagreements between the presidency and the government. The dismissal of Najla Bouden paves the way for a new appointment, with Ahmed Hachani, a lawyer relatively unknown to the general public, who succeeds him. This decision raises many questions about the motivations of the president and the repercussions on the political situation in Tunisia.
Reasons for dismissal:
Although the press release from the Tunisian presidency does not give a precise explanation for the dismissal of Najla Bouden, it seems that the bread crisis played a major role in this decision. Indeed, Tunisia is facing a shortage of subsidized bread, which has caused tensions among the population. The disagreements between President Saïed and the Prime Minister on the policy to adopt to resolve this crisis were one of the reasons mentioned.
The profile of the new Prime Minister:
The replacement of Najla Bouden by Ahmed Hachani, a lawyer relatively unknown to the general public, raises questions about his skills and his political positions. His social media posts show an inclination for a constitutional monarchy regime and loyalty to a local football club. His Facebook profile also reveals family ties to a politically sensitive case: his father was sentenced to death in the plot against former President Habib Bourguiba. These elements raise questions about the political orientations and the neutrality of Ahmed Hachani.
The political consequences:
The dismissal of Najla Bouden and the appointment of Ahmed Hachani raise concerns about the concentration of power in the hands of President Saïed. Since his coup in 2021, Saïed has governed by decree and has reduced the powers of parliament. This decision reinforces this presidential tendency and further restricts the powers of the government. Moreover, the new Prime Minister will not need a vote of confidence from Parliament, which raises questions about the legitimacy and representativeness of this government.
Conclusion :
The dismissal of Tunisian Prime Minister Najla Bouden by President Kaïs Saïed amid a bread crisis and political disagreements has important ramifications for the political situation in Tunisia. The appointment of Ahmed Hachani, a relatively unknown jurist, raises questions about his skills and political affiliations. This decision reinforces the concentration of power in the hands of President Saïed and limits the powers of the government