Tunisian President Kais Saied held a meeting with Prime Minister Sarah Zahafani Zenzari, Interior Minister Khaled Nouri, and Trade Minister Samir Obeid to discuss the country's economic challenges. The focus was on curbing the rapid increase in prices and addressing hidden monopolies affecting various agricultural products. The President emphasized the need for fair pricing and availability of essential goods.

One of the key issues raised was the price of dates, which sell for around one Tunisian dinar per kilogramme directly from farmers, yet are sold at much higher prices in markets. President Saied highlighted the hard work and risks taken by farmers and agricultural workers, who often spend long hours harvesting dates in difficult conditions. He stressed that some parties are intentionally disrupting the distribution of essential resources like fertilizers and seeds.

The President accused certain individuals and groups of manipulating prices and creating artificial scarcity, citing examples such as lobster, poultry, and bottled water. These actions, he argued, are aimed at profiteering at the expense of citizens. Saied emphasized that true freedom requires transparency, justice, and fairness, which are compromised by monopolistic practices and price manipulation.

President Saied vowed to hold accountable those responsible for these practices and to take action against monopolies and profiteering. He stated that the law should apply equally to all, without exception or discrimination, and that no individual or group should be above the law. The President also stressed the importance of regular and uninterrupted waste collection services.

The President expressed concern that some parties are seeking to exploit the situation to spark social unrest and undermine the country's stability. He warned that such attempts would be thwarted by the Tunisian people, who have previously resisted similar efforts. Saied reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring that citizens have access to essential goods at affordable prices.

The meeting's discussions also touched on the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public resources. President Saied noted that large sums of money are spent on importing luxury goods, while essential resources are often in short supply. He called for a more equitable distribution of resources and a focus on supporting local production.

In conclusion, President Saied reaffirmed his government's commitment to addressing the country's economic challenges and promoting social justice. He emphasized that the Tunisian people have the right to live with dignity and to access essential goods at affordable prices. The President's efforts aim to promote transparency, accountability, and fairness in the management of public resources.

Key points

  • Tunisian President Kais Saied is taking steps to address soaring prices and hidden monopolies affecting agricultural products.
  • The President emphasized the need for transparency, justice, and fairness in the management of public resources.
  • President Saied vowed to hold accountable those responsible for monopolistic practices and price manipulation.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.