Tunisia, a tragic incident occurred as a local man in his early 40s was fatally stabbed during a scuffle between residents and migrants from sub-Saharan Africa. The incident, which took place late on Monday, has escalated tensions between the two communities and raised concerns over racial tensions in the region.
Authorities swiftly responded to the situation, arresting three African migrants as suspects in connection with the stabbing death. The suspects, reported to be from Cameroon based on initial information, are now in custody as investigations continue.
Sfax, Tunisia’s second-largest city and a major departure point for migrants hoping to reach Italy, has witnessed rising tensions in recent months. On Sunday, police had to intervene and disperse residents and migrants who were involved in clashes, using tear gas to quell the violence.
Following the news of the man’s death, there have been demonstrations by local youths calling for vengeance at the victim’s funeral. Some reactions on social media, unfortunately, displayed racist sentiments, calling for the expulsion of African migrants from Sfax.
The situation has caught the attention of authorities, with the interior ministry announcing a bolstered police and security presence in Sfax after the fatal incident. However, it’s essential to note that racial tensions and violent incidents involving migrants have occurred in Tunisia before. In May, three Tunisian citizens were arrested for the suspected stabbing death of a migrant from Benin.
The issue of illegal migration has become a point of contention in the country, partly fueled by President Kais Saied’s comments in February, where he accused illegal migrants of contributing to violence, crime, and “unacceptable practices.” This sentiment has led to increased animosity towards migrants and foreign students, exacerbating the situation.
Saied, during a recent visit to the interior ministry, reiterated Tunisia’s stance, stating that the country does not accept those who disrespect its laws or use its territory as a transit or resettlement point for nationals of certain African countries.
Tunisia currently hosts around 21,000 migrants from other parts of Africa, accounting for 0.2 percent of its population. Many of these migrants use the country as a pathway to Europe, particularly the Italian island of Lampedusa, which is approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) away.
As Tunisia faces economic challenges, some Tunisians themselves have sought to emigrate to Europe, fleeing the country’s economic crisis. The nation is currently in discussions for a bailout loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with Saied rejecting what he perceives as the “diktats” of the IMF, while Europe has offered assistance to tackle illegal migration and boost the country’s economy.
The incident in Sfax has highlighted the urgent need for addressing the issue of racial tensions and finding constructive ways to address the challenges posed by migration and economic struggles. The focus remains on restoring peace, fostering tolerance, and seeking solutions to ensure the well-being of all communities in Tunisia.
