Tunisian President Kais Saied cited “national security” as the reason for a major cabinet reshuffle before the October 6 elections.
He replaced nearly all cabinet members, including the foreign and defense ministers.
In his speech, Saied criticized the previous government’s “lack of coherence” and the “irresponsibility” of some ministers who, he claimed, made decisions outside presidential directives.
He emphasized that the reshuffle focused on “national security.”
Saied highlighted ongoing tensions between those supporting the new constitution and those favoring a return to Tunisia’s previous dictatorship.
The president is seeking re-election to continue his vision of “a new republic.”
Many of Saied’s political opponents are either imprisoned or facing trials.
Only two candidates, Zouhair Maghzaoui and Ayachi Zammel, have been pre-selected to run against him in the upcoming elections.
The country is grappling with high unemployment, water stress, and financial difficulties.
Tunisia’s economy is stagnating, with growth at just 0.4 percent, amid increasing debt and a struggling middle class.
