Who is Sifi Ghrieb, Algeria’s New Interim Prime Minister?

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has removed Prime Minister Nadir Larbaoui from office and appointed Sifi Ghrieb as interim Prime Minister. The announcement was made by the presidency on Thursday. No official reason was given, but political observers believe a recent deadly bus crash in Algiers may have sped up the decision.

Sifi Ghrieb’s Background

Sifi Ghrieb, 51, is a chemist by training and a well-known figure in Algeria’s industrial sector. He holds a doctorate in physical chemistry of materials from Badji Mokhtar University in Annaba.

Before entering politics, Ghrieb had a long career in industry. He served as chairman of the Algerian-Qatari Steel Company, directed the National Recovery Company, and also headed the Industrial University under the Ministry of Industry.

In November 2024, he was appointed Minister of Industry and Pharmaceutical Production. Since then, he has pushed for policies focused on local production, reducing imports, and attracting foreign investment.

Key Achievements

Over the years, Ghrieb has been linked with several important projects:

• Oversaw Algeria’s first petroleum well drilled with locally made cement.

• Helped establish the Industrial University to connect academics and industry experts.

• Supported the production of Algeria’s first locally manufactured marine engine, made in partnership with state companies.

In 2021, he won third place in the National Innovation Prize, highlighting his role as a strong supporter of homegrown expertise.

Local media describe him as a technocrat who believes in relying on Algerian knowledge and innovation to revive the struggling industrial base.

Why Was Larbaoui Removed?

Former PM Nadir Larbaoui took office in November 2023. He had earlier resigned in September 2024 after Tebboune’s re-election but was asked to stay on temporarily to help pass the 2025 budget and other urgent laws.

His removal now comes after growing criticism of his performance. A deadly bus crash in Algiers earlier this month raised questions about his leadership. His absence from a transport meeting just days after the tragedy fueled speculation about his weak role.

On August 26, 2025, President Tebboune announced new measures to improve transport safety, including the import of new buses to replace ageing fleets. Analysts say this highlighted the government’s need for change.

Political analyst Mohammed Ben Yeto told local media that “the government’s performance was weak” and public opinion was demanding change. He added that Larbaoui’s repeated absences from official events further weakened his image.

Many expect this decision to be the first step toward a broader cabinet reshuffle, with parliament set to reconvene in September to debate long-delayed draft laws on political parties and associations.