Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri: A Pioneering Leader in Moroccan Politics
In a groundbreaking move for gender representation in Moroccan politics, King Mohammed VI has appointed Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as the country's first female prime minister. This significant announcement was made on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, following the recent parliamentary elections held on September 23, where Mansouri's party, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), secured a remarkable 97 seats in the 395-seat House of Representatives. The appointment was confirmed through an official statement released by the Ministry of the Royal Household, Protocol and Chancellery, highlighting the king's authority to select the prime minister from the party that garners the most seats.
During a formal meeting at the Royal Palace in Rabat, King Mohammed VI bestowed the prime ministerial role upon Mansouri, who has been instrumental as the coordinator of PAM’s collective leadership. Following her appointment, Mansouri expressed her gratitude and pride in this historic milestone for Morocco, emphasizing that her new role not only represents her personal achievements but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for women across the nation. "This is the first time that a woman has been appointed to head a government, which is a source of pride for me and for all the women of the country," she remarked, underscoring the significance of her position in advancing women's rights and representation in Morocco.
Mansouri's immediate focus will be on engaging in consultations with both her party and other political factions to establish a robust government. Recognizing the high expectations of Moroccan citizens, particularly the youth, she stated, "We are fully aware of the importance of this stage and of the high expectations of citizens, particularly young people. We will draw up a program offering realistic and concrete solutions." The political landscape following the elections saw the National Rally of Independents (RNI) securing the second position with 66 seats, closely followed by the Istiqlal Party with 65 seats and the Justice and Development Party (PJD) with 54 seats. To form a governing majority, a coalition of at least 198 seats is required, setting the stage for crucial negotiations among the political parties.
El Mansouri's ascent in Moroccan politics is noteworthy, as she previously made history by becoming the first female mayor of Marrakech in 2009, shortly after the establishment of PAM in 2008. Alongside notable party figures such as Mehdi Bensaid, the minister of youth and culture, and Fatima Saadi, she now heads the collective leadership of her party, poised to navigate the complexities of governance in her new capacity.
As reported by aa.com.tr.
