Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has made a significant cabinet reshuffle, appointing Brahim Merad as the new Minister of Interior and Local Collectivities. This move was announced by the Presidency in a statement on October 13. Merad returns to the Interior Ministry, a position he previously held from September 2022 to September 2025. His reappointment comes after serving as Minister of State, charged with the inspection of state services and local collectivities.
Saïd Sayoud, who previously held both the Interior and Transport portfolios, will now focus solely on the Transport Ministry. Sayoud had taken over the super ministry of Interior, Local Collectivities, and Transport in September 2025. He had succeeded Brahim Merad at the Interior Ministry, while also holding the position of Transport Minister since November 2024. This change in portfolio allocation marks a significant shift in the government's strategy.
The appointment of Brahim Merad as Interior Minister comes after President Tebboune expressed criticism of Saïd Sayoud regarding the recent surge in tomato prices. The President had notably questioned Sayoud's claim that he had never seen tomato prices reach 200 Algerian Dinar (DA) per kilogram in 60 years. This public rebuke likely contributed to the decision to reassign Sayoud to the Transport Ministry.
Brahim Merad's previous tenure as Interior Minister lasted three years, from September 2022 to September 2025. After his departure, he was appointed Minister of State, overseeing the inspection of state services and local collectivities. His return to the Interior Ministry suggests that the President values his experience and expertise in this area.
The changes in the cabinet are part of President Tebboune's efforts to address various challenges facing the country, including economic issues and public discontent. The recent surge in tomato prices is a case in point, with the President himself intervening to address the issue. The appointment of new ministers is seen as a move to revitalize the government's approach to these challenges.
The Algerian government has been working to improve the living standards of its citizens, with a focus on economic development and social welfare. The President's efforts to revamp his cabinet and address pressing issues are seen as crucial to achieving these goals. The appointments of Brahim Merad and Saïd Sayoud to their new positions are expected to bring fresh perspectives to their respective ministries.
The changes in the Algerian cabinet have been closely watched by the public and the media. The appointments of Brahim Merad and Saïd Sayoud reflect the President's efforts to optimize his team's performance and address the country's challenges. The impact of these changes on the country's development and stability will be closely monitored in the coming months.
Key points
- Brahim Merad has been reappointed as Algeria's Interior Minister.
- Saïd Sayoud will take over as Transport Minister, focusing solely on this portfolio.
- The appointments are part of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's efforts to address economic challenges and public concerns.
