Tunisian President Kais Saied Overhauls Cabinet Ahead of Election

Tunisian President Kais Saied announced a major cabinet reshuffle, appointing new ministers for defense, foreign affairs, and the economy. The changes come ahead of a presidential election on October 6, amid a financial crisis and public dissatisfaction. Opposition parties accuse the government of using intimidation tactics to suppress rivals.

Tunisian President Kais Saied announced on Sunday a comprehensive reshuffling of his cabinet, appointing 19 new ministers, including key positions in defense, foreign affairs, and the economy, just ahead of the presidential election slated for October 6.

The presidency revealed that Khaled Shili has been named the new defense minister and Mohamed Ali Nafti will take over as the foreign affairs minister. Earlier this month, Saied dismissed Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani, replacing him with Kamel Maddouri, who was serving as the social affairs minister.

While the ministers of finance, justice, and the interior retained their positions, the shake-up occurs amid a financial crisis and widespread discontent over recurring water and electricity outages and shortages of essential goods and medicines. The move is seen as an attempt to inject fresh energy and attract voters. Critics, however, argue that Saied, who consolidated power in 2021 by shutting down the elected parliament, is using coercive tactics to weaken electoral opponents and secure re-election.

(With inputs from agencies.)