Title: Tunisia: Dismissal of Prime Minister Najla Bouden by President Kaïs Saïed
Introduction :
Tunisia was shaken by the announcement of the dismissal of Prime Minister Najla Bouden by President Kaïs Saïed. This decision comes in a context of political and economic crisis which has prevailed in the country for several years. The absence of official explanations raises many questions as to the real motivations behind this decision.
Analysis of the situation :
The dismissal of Najla Bouden comes against a backdrop of the bread crisis in Tunisia, as well as disagreements between the presidency and the government regarding the bread subsidy policy. These factors could be behind this sudden decision. However, the lack of clear and transparent explanations from the presidency raises questions as to the real reason for this dismissal.
New Prime Minister unknown to the general public:
Ahmed Hachani was immediately appointed by President Kaïs Saïed to replace Najla Bouden as Prime Minister. Little known to the general public, little information is available on its political orientations. Only a few posts on his Facebook profile suggest anti-Islamist positions and an interest in a constitutional monarchy. His appointment raises questions about his ability to lead the government in this period of crisis.
Restricted powers of the new Prime Minister:
According to the new Tunisian constitution, the new Prime Minister does not need a vote of confidence from Parliament to be appointed. However, his powers will be restricted in the face of the executive led by President Saïed. It remains to be seen whether ministerial reshuffles will take place following Ahmed Hachani’s taking office.
The political and economic crisis in Tunisia:
Since President Saïed’s coup in 2021, Tunisia has faced a deep political and economic crisis. The powers of Parliament were reduced in favor of an ultra-presidentialist system, and numerous arrests of political opponents took place. The country also faces economic difficulties, with high debt, low growth, increasing poverty and high unemployment.
Conclusion :
The dismissal of Prime Minister Najla Bouden by President Kaïs Saïed raises many questions as to the reasons for this decision. In a context of political and economic crisis in Tunisia, it remains to be seen how the new Prime Minister, Ahmed Hachani, will manage to face the challenges facing the country. The situation remains tense and Tunisia’s political future is uncertain.