Algeria’s interim PM retains position as new government is formed

Algeria’s political landscape shifted on the 14th of September as President Abdelmadjid Tebboune appointed Sifi Ghrieb as the country’s new prime minister and confirmed the formation of a fresh government, reported The New Arab via AFP.

Ghrieb, a materials science scholar and former chairman of Algerian Qatari Steel, had served as interim premier since August 28, when former prime minister Nadir Larbaoui was dismissed following his absence from a transport safety meeting, shortly after a deadly bus crash in which 18 people were killed.

“The president of the republic honoured me today by naming me prime minister and entrusting me with the formation of a new government,” Ghrieb said in a brief video statement, pledging to “prioritise serving the Algerian people and advancing the national economy,” according to the Algerian presidency’s announcement.

The Algerian presidency also stated that Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf and Justice Minister Lotfi Boudjemaa will keep their posts, while Transport Minister Said Sayoud will add to the interior portfolio. The energy ministry is split: hydrocarbons remain with Mohamed Arkab, and a new renewables ministry is entrusted to Mourad Adjal. Professor Mohamed Esseddik Ait Messaoudene becomes the health minister, and Tebboune retains the defence ministry.

Ghrieb inherits deep economic challenges. Hydrocarbons still generate more than 90 percent of export revenue, leaving Algeria vulnerable to oil-price swings. A recent report highlights how chronic water scarcity and governance failures have fuelled public frustration and underscore the need for infrastructure investment. Another analysis examines press-freedom tensions, reflecting wider demands for political openness that the new government must navigate.

Further, Al Jazeera notes that Algeria struggles with stubborn youth unemployment, costly food and fuel subsidies—issues that will test the new government’s ability to reform without sparking unrest.

Energy diversification is also central to Tebboune’s strategy, as according to Reuters, Algeria aims to boost renewable generation and secure long-term gas exports to Europe. However, the rising domestic demand and slow investment threaten export capacity within the next decade.

The New Arab via AFP, Maghrebi.org, Al Jazeera, Reuters