Tunisia: In a surprise move, Tunisian President Kais Saied dismissed Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani without explanation on Wednesday, appointing Social Affairs Minister Kamel Madouri as his replacement.
This marks the second prime ministerial change in just over a year, as Hachani had only assumed office last August, replacing Najla Bouden.
Madouri, who has led the social affairs ministry since May, was shown in a social media post shaking hands with Saied, with a brief statement announcing his new role. Saied, who came to power democratically in 2019 but has since centralized authority, is seeking re-election in the October 6 elections amidst growing controversy.
Power Consolidation and Opposition Crackdown
Since Saied’s 2021 power grab, Tunisia has seen significant political restructuring, including a new constitution that grants the president sweeping powers while limiting the parliament’s role. This centralization has drawn criticism and accusations of undemocratic practices, particularly with the upcoming elections.
Saied submitted his candidacy on Monday, framing his re-election bid as part of a “war of liberation and self-determination.” However, his campaign has been marred by the arrest and prosecution of several opposition figures, effectively barring them from running.
Opposition Silenced
Key opposition leader Abir Moussi was sentenced to two years in prison under a “false news” law shortly after submitting her candidacy through her lawyers. Similarly, media personality Nizar Chaari received an eight-month sentence after his campaign staff were accused of forging signatures.
Other detained opposition figures include Issam Chebbi of the centrist Al Joumhouri party and Ghazi Chaouchi of the Democratic Current, both charged with “plotting against the state.” Over 20 of Saied’s opponents have been arrested since February 2023.
Further complicating the election landscape, candidates like Mondher Zenaidi and rapper-turned-businessman Karim Gharbi claim they have been blocked from running due to authorities withholding necessary documents. Retired admiral Kamel Akrout described his exclusion as part of a broader strategy to silence dissenting voices.
International Concerns
Amnesty International’s Secretary General, Agnes Callamard, has warned that Tunisia is witnessing a resurgence of past human rights violations. Despite these concerns, Saied denies any suppression of dissent, asserting that claims of restrictions are unfounded.
As Tunisia heads towards its October elections, the political climate remains tense, with international and domestic observers closely monitoring the developments.
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