Tunis – In a surprise move, President Kais Saied issued a decree on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, dismissing the Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Fatma Thabet Chiboub. An official statement announced that the Minister of Equipment and Housing, Salah Zouari, would temporarily manage the ministry’s affairs. This decision raises questions about the future of the vital energy sector.
War on corruption and nepotism
The dismissal came after a stormy meeting held by Saied on Monday at the Carthage Palace with Prime Minister Sara Zafrani Zanziri and her cabinet. During the meeting, Saied made fiery statements, asserting that the state was determined to eradicate what he called “pockets of reaction, subservience, and corruption.” He strongly criticized the pervasiveness of “loyalty” within the administration. He also argued that appointments made outside legal frameworks had transformed the state into a “spoils system” and a source of personal privileges. Furthermore, he accused certain parties of obstructing reform and exacerbating social unrest.
Wages and employment: Carthage’s priority
Alongside the dismissal decisions, the meeting focused on pressing issues related to the cost of living. The implementation of salary and wage increases for both the public and private sectors was approved. An agreement was also reached to raise pensions for retirees for the years 2026-2028, in accordance with the Finance Law.
Furthermore, the President announced the completion of the digital platform dedicated to employing the long-term unemployed. This initiative aims to alleviate social tensions and solidify the foundations of the new social policy.
Fatima Thabet Sheboub is leaving her post after more than two years in office. She has extensive experience as a chief inspector of economic affairs and a former director of the Industrial Rehabilitation Office.
