Algerian Prime Minister Larbaoui strengthens cabinet with new appointments

Algerian Prime Minister Nadir Larbaoui unveiled on Monday a cabinet reshuffle, marking significant changes, including the appointment of the influential Chief of Staff, General Said Chengriha, as Delegate for National Defense. Key new appointments were also made in the Ministries of Justice and Industry.

The reshuffle follows the reappointment of Prime Minister Larbaoui by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who renewed his trust in the Prime Minister after accepting his symbolic resignation—a procedural formality following the presidential election on September 7, which resulted in Tebboune’s re-election at the age of 79.

The presidency confirmed that Larbaoui, who has served as Prime Minister for approximately a year, was instructed to "continue his duties" before announcing the reshuffle. While many key ministers retained their portfolios, some notable changes were introduced.

Key Appointments and Changes

1. General Said Chengriha (79): The Chief of Staff has joined the government as Delegate for National Defense, while President Tebboune remains the official head of the Ministry of Defense.
2. Lotfi Boudjemaa: Appointed as the new Minister of Justice.
3. Sifi Gharib: Takes over the Ministry of Industry, replacing Ali Aoun.
4. Walid Sadi: President of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), now the Minister of Sports.
5. Commerce Portfolio Division:
   • Tayeb Zitouni oversees Internal Commerce.
   • Mohamed Boukhari is responsible for External Commerce and Export Promotion.
6. Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries: Merged under the leadership of Youcef Chorfa.

Several high-profile ministers have retained their positions, including:

• Ahmed Attaf: Minister of Foreign Affairs.
• Brahim Merad: Minister of the Interior.
• Mohamed Arkab: Minister of Energy.

At 75, Prime Minister Larbaoui brings extensive diplomatic experience to his role. He has previously served as Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and held ambassadorial roles multiple times. 

Before becoming Prime Minister on November 11, 2023, he was appointed as President Tebboune's Chief of Staff in March 2023.

This cabinet reshuffle reflects President Tebboune’s strategy to maintain stability while introducing fresh leadership in certain sectors to drive reform and efficiency.