Tunisia President Dismisses Finance Minister Amid Economic Struggles

Kais Saied has replaced finance minister Sihem Boughdiri Nemsia with Michket Slama Khaldi amid ongoing concerns over financial recovery and corruption in Tunisia. The president’s dissatisfaction with government performance emphasizes the need for effective action against embezzlement and economic decline. Tunisia’s economic growth is projected at only 1.6% in 2025, with significant challenges remaining.

Tunisia’s President Kais Saied has dismissed his finance minister, Sihem Boughdiri Nemsia, appointing Michket Slama Khaldi in her place. The change was announced via a Facebook post by the presidency, which included a video of Khaldi’s swearing-in. No reasons for the dismissal were provided initially.

During a subsequent visit to various government offices, including the finance ministry, President Saied expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. He emphasized the need for immediate action to recover embezzled public funds, criticizing the pace of progress since the revolution in 2011 that led to the ousting of former president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

Kais Saied has been the president of Tunisia since 2019, following the country’s emergence as a democracy from the Arab Spring. His administration has faced challenges, including claims of democratic backsliding after he consolidated power in 2021. Tunisia’s economy is grappling with high unemployment and shortages of basic goods, while overall growth has stagnated, with a projected annual rate of only 1.6% in 2025, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

President Kais Saied’s decision to appoint Michket Slama Khaldi as finance minister is part of his ongoing commitment to combat corruption in Tunisia. Saied’s visible frustration at government inefficiencies underscores the urgency of addressing economic issues amid rising public discontent. With Tunisia’s economic situation precarious, successful governance and accountability are crucial for stability and recovery.

Original Source: www.newarab.com