Minister's Firm Stance Against Lobbyist Connections
Fatima Zahra Mansouri, the Minister of National Land Preparation, Urban Planning, Housing, and City Policy, has firmly rejected any attempts to link the proposed law No. 34.21 concerning real estate subdivisions and housing groups to the interests of specific lobbying groups. During a meeting of the Committee on Interior, Territorial Communities, City Policy, and Administrative Affairs, she stated unequivocally, 'Neither my upbringing, political training, nor professional practice would allow me to submit to any lobby, regardless of its nature. This law is not tailored for lobbyists nor does it aim to protect any particular individual.' Mansouri emphasized that the legal text serves the public interest, safeguarding both the state and its officials, and it applies equally to all citizens, whether rich or poor. She further expressed her commitment to reality-based dialogue and expert opinions, dismissing the notion that she is merely a minister who spends her time entertaining real estate developers, noting that many avoid meeting her due to her strict adherence to the law.
Balancing State Interests with Citizen Rights
The minister acknowledged the challenges her ministry faced in formulating the law, particularly in achieving a delicate balance between state interests and the rights of citizens to benefit from these initiatives while also considering the nation's need to stimulate investment and boost the economy. She asserted that the proposed law significantly impacts citizens' lives and economic activities, describing it as a technical text with profound economic and social implications. In response to criticisms from a parliamentary member who read a prepared statement, Mansouri remarked on the lack of substantial contributions from previous administrations, pointing out their failure to present programs, plans, or legal texts while engaging in political criticism. She articulated, 'It's easy for those without results to criticize others; however, I will not waste my time responding to baseless claims.'
Mansouri also highlighted the political will to empower local leaders by providing them with the necessary resources and legal protections, acknowledging that they are often the most vulnerable, bearing the brunt of public criticism despite being responsible for local governance. She reiterated that any public policy lacking effective implementation mechanisms to protect citizens and communities while encouraging investment would ultimately fall short. The minister preferred a cautious approach to responding to party proposals, recognizing the significance of the legislative text. She clarified that the law in question is the result of extensive dialogue with community leaders, elected officials, professionals, and investors, who collectively agreed on the necessity to amend a legal framework that has been in place for over 30 years. Additionally, Mansouri expressed her ministry's openness to modifications proposed by the Committee on Interior and Territorial Communities, given the deputies' field expertise in local management.
In closing, the minister commended the public works sector for generating approximately 64,000 job opportunities during the current government term, attributing this success to housing support programs that have benefited nearly 97,000 individuals, as well as the accelerated 'Cities Without Slums' initiative in several cities, including Skhirat, Marrakech, and Kenitra. The minister's remarks underscore her commitment to transparency, accountability, and the prioritization of citizen welfare in the face of various challenges in urban development and housing policy.
As reported by hespress.com.
