Mokhtar Laghzioui has been elected as the president of Morocco's National Press Council. He is the director of publication of the journal Al Ahdath Al Maghribia. The election took place on Monday, September 21, 2026. This development marks a significant milestone for the council. Laghzioui's election was confirmed by L'Opinion, a Moroccan news source.
The National Press Council is a crucial institution in Morocco's media landscape. Its reorganization has been a topic of discussion in recent months. In April 2026, the Chamber of Representatives adopted a bill on the reorganization of the council in commission. This move was followed by the installation of a provisional commission on July 25, 2026. These steps aimed to reform the council and adapt it to the evolving media environment.
The election of Mokhtar Laghzioui as president is seen as a positive development by some. According to L'Opinion, this event marks the end of a challenging period for the council. The council has faced criticism and controversy in the past, particularly regarding its reform. Some stakeholders have expressed concerns about the council's ability to effectively regulate the media landscape.
The National Press Council plays a vital role in promoting press freedom and regulating the media in Morocco. Its president is responsible for leading the council and making key decisions. Mokhtar Laghzioui's experience as director of publication of Al Ahdath Al Maghribia is expected to serve him well in this position. His election is likely to have implications for the council's future activities and policies.
The Moroccan government has been working to reform the National Press Council. In March 2026, the minister of communication, Mustapha Bensaid, unveiled the details of a bill aimed at reorganizing the council. The bill was introduced following a decision by the Constitutional Court. The reform aims to adapt the council to the changing media landscape and ensure its independence.
The National Press Council's reform has not been without controversy. Some unions have expressed their rejection of the reform, citing concerns about its impact on press freedom. The council's provisional commission has been working to address these concerns and ensure a smooth transition. The election of Mokhtar Laghzioui as president is expected to help the council move forward.
The future of Morocco's National Press Council will likely be shaped by Mokhtar Laghzioui's leadership. His experience and expertise will be crucial in navigating the challenges facing the council. The council's ability to effectively regulate the media landscape and promote press freedom will depend on its president's leadership and vision.
Key points
- Mokhtar Laghzioui elected president of Morocco's National Press Council.
- The council has undergone significant reforms in recent months.
- The election marks a positive development for the council, according to some stakeholders.
