Tunisian President Kais Saied held a meeting with Prime Minister Sara Al-Zafrani Al-Zanzeri and Employment Minister Riadh Chouad at the Carthage Palace on October 5, 2026. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress made in implementing the provisions of Law 18 of 2025. This law relates to exceptional measures for recruiting graduates of higher education who have been unemployed for a long time in the public sector and civil service.
According to the presidency's statement, President Saied discussed the accumulated reasons over several decades that have led to the current situation. These include recruitments based on falsified certificates or without the required academic qualifications. The President stated that the "certificate" required for recruitment had become merely a matter of belonging to a particular group or entity.
President Saied emphasized that today's unemployed individuals are not jobless by choice but were hindered due to practices and operations well-known to everyone. He also highlighted the privileges granted, which led to the waste of public funds. As a result, those entitled to rights were deprived, while others without legitimate claims were granted benefits.
The President stressed that this phase is not one of argumentation but of work, honesty, integrity, and loyalty. He pointed out that the Tunisian people, who have made sacrifices for independence, dignity, work, freedom, and national dignity, have shown deep and steady awareness. This awareness will guide them through challenges.
President Saied added that the people of Tunisia are forging their path, undeterred by difficulties, disagreements, fluctuations, or changes. He expressed confidence that the nation's flag, a symbol of dignity and sovereignty, will continue to fly high. The President also noted that the people continually assess and expose those corrupted by public funds.
The President affirmed that the people will achieve their goals despite challenges and obstacles. He reiterated the commitment to fulfilling promises, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and responsibility. This commitment is part of a broader effort to restore rights and ensure justice.
The meeting between President Saied, Prime Minister Al-Zanzeri, and Minister Chouad reflects the government's ongoing efforts to address unemployment and implement necessary reforms. The implementation of Law 18 of 2025 is a key part of this strategy, aiming to provide opportunities for long-term unemployed graduates.
Key points
- President Saied emphasizes the need for work, honesty, and integrity in the current phase.
- The implementation of Law 18 of 2025 aims to recruit unemployed graduates of higher education.
- The President highlights the waste of public funds due to privileges granted without legitimate claims.
