Rabat – In yet another surprising move on Tuesday evening, Tunisian President Kais Saied announced the dismissal of Prime Minister Najla Bouden Romdhane from her post.
The decision, which raised speculations in the country’s political landscape, was accompanied with the appointment of Ahmed Hachani in replacement of Bouden. The Tunisian presidency did not provide specific reasons for Bouden Romdhane’s removal.
Najla Bouden Romdhane made history in September 2021 when she was appointed as Tunisia’s first female Prime Minister after months of political deadlock. However, her tenure has been marred by several dismissals, indicating underlying tensions within her government.
In May, Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Naela Nouira al-Ganji, was relieved of her post, adding to the growing list of ousted officials. Prior to that, in March, Interior Minister Tawfiq Charafeddine resigned, signaling further challenges within the government. Additionally, in the same month, Minister of Employment and Vocational Training Nasr al-Din al-Nasibi was also removed from his duties.
The dismissal of Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration, and Tunisians Abroad, Othman Jerandi, in February 2023 had already set the stage for increased political tension. Jerandi was replaced by Nabil Ammar, as part of a mini-cabinet reshuffle initiated by President Kais Saied.
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In early 2023, President Saied conducted another mini-cabinet reshuffle, appointing two new ministers. Fathi al-Salawti replaced Mohamed Ali al-Boughdiri as the Minister of Education, while Abdel Moneim Balati succeeded Mahmoud Elias Hamza as the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water Resources, and Fisheries.
The recurring changes in key government positions have raised concerns over Tunisia’s governance and the political class’ ability to address the pressing challenges facing the country. This comes as Tunisia continues to grapple with economic hardships, social unrest, and a protracted political crisis.
