Historic Appointment of Fatima Ezzahra El-Mansouri

On September 23, 2026, Morocco witnessed a significant political shift when the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) emerged as the leading party in legislative elections characterized by notably high abstention rates. Following this electoral outcome, King Mohammed VI appointed Fatima Ezzahra El-Mansouri as the new Prime Minister, making her the first woman to hold this prestigious governmental position in Morocco's history. This landmark decision not only signifies a change in leadership but also represents a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape, as El-Mansouri is recognized for her strong character and notable political intelligence, as highlighted by the Moroccan weekly, TelQuel.

Political Journey and Challenges

El-Mansouri's political journey began when she was first elected as the mayor of Marrakech in 2009. However, her initial election faced challenges as a rival political party contested its validity, leading to a court ruling that annulled the results. Eventually, the Marrakech Court of Appeal deemed the election valid, allowing her to reclaim her position until 2015. During this tumultuous period, the sacking of a governor and a judge raised questions about the political support she had at the royal palace, suggesting that she may have had influential allies. The independent Moroccan site Le Desk noted that the prologue of her political saga is marked by these controversies, setting the stage for her latest appointment as head of government.

Despite speculation about her connections and support at the palace, it appears that King Mohammed VI favored her profile over that of Fouzi Lekjaa, the outgoing minister and president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, who was previously considered for the Prime Minister position. Some analysts suggest that by selecting El-Mansouri, the king may be signaling that the upcoming 2030 World Cup is not currently a priority for the nation. This appointment not only highlights El-Mansouri's capabilities but also reflects the evolving political dynamics in Morocco, as the nation embraces a new era of leadership with a focus on inclusivity and representation.

As reported by courrierinternational.com.