In a move to address the ongoing economic crisis in Tunisia, President Kais Saied has taken decisive action by dismissing Prime Minister Najla Bouden and appointing Ahmed Hachani as her replacement. This development was reported by Tunisia’s state news agency, TAP, on Wednesday.
Ahmed Hachani, a former employee of Tunisia’s Finance Ministry and central bank, was sworn in as the new Prime Minister by President Saied during a ceremony at the Carthage Palace on Tuesday evening.
While no official reason was given for the dismissal of Najla Bouden, critics have described her as the “shadow of the president.” The decision comes amid growing public discontent in Tunisia over food shortages, price hikes, and long queues for bread, a staple item in the country. The nation is currently facing its worst economic crisis in decades, with high unemployment rates.
Tunisia’s role as a major route for migrants attempting to reach Europe has also added to its challenges. Last month, the European Union and Tunisia signed a deal aimed at addressing irregular migration, in exchange for an aid package.
The economic situation in Tunisia is further complicated by a pending $1.9-billion bailout loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). President Saied has rejected the IMF’s demanded reforms, warning that they could lead to a potentially explosive situation with serious consequences for Tunisia and the broader region’s stability.
Ahmed Hachani, the new Prime Minister, assumes office “under special circumstances” and “great challenges,” as acknowledged by President Saied. The president urged Hachani to work diligently to preserve the state, harmonize and integrate its institutions, and respond to the people’s demands.
The appointment of Najla Bouden as Tunisia’s first female prime minister occurred in September 2021. This appointment followed President Saied’s controversial decision to unseat the previous premier, suspend parliament, and consolidate legislative and executive powers, actions that the opposition labeled as a “coup.”
(With inputs from agencies)
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
