Tunisian President Kais Saied replaced several ministers on Sunday, including those from foreign and defense portfolios, according to a presidency statement posted on Facebook.
The unexpected reshuffle affected 19 ministers and three state secretaries.
The reshuffle came days after Saied dismissed the prime minister, announcing the changes on August 25, 2024, without providing further details.
The move occurs as Tunisia prepares for its presidential elections on October 6.
Saied, 66, was democratically elected in 2019 but consolidated power in 2021.
He now seeks a second term in what he calls a “war of liberation and self-determination” aimed at building a “new republic,” despite growing concerns over repression.
Human Rights Watch reported this week that Tunisian authorities have imprisoned or prosecuted at least eight presidential candidates for the October vote.
Critics say Saied’s government is cracking down on dissent and undermining free speech.
Several opposition figures, including Abir Moussi and Issam Chebbi, have been jailed, while others face prosecution.
Only two candidates remain to challenge Saied, raising doubts over the fairness of the upcoming election amid widespread repression.
