On October 9, 2026, King Mohammed VI delivered a significant speech to mark the opening of the first session of the first year of the 12th legislative term. Moroccan economic expert Rashid Sari has provided an in-depth analysis of the King's address. Sari emphasized that the speech conveyed unforgettable messages. The first message highlights that taking pride in one's country is a responsibility and a commitment, not just a feeling.
According to Sari, the King's speech also underscored that national enterprises are partners in development, not just profit. This message was conveyed during a time when the monarch's address emphasized the importance of turning regionalization into a tangible reality, rather than just a legal framework. Sari, who also heads the African Center for Strategic Studies and Digitalization, noted that the King's speech came with three priorities.
The first priority, as analyzed by Sari, involves creating a strong and independent economy, focusing on industry, water and energy security, and food security, in addition to enhancing digitalization and artificial intelligence. The second priority relates to the need to establish genuine regionalization by transferring competencies and resources to the regions and accelerating decentralization.
Sari highlighted that these priorities ultimately aim to prioritize human development, placing youth at the heart of the national project. He added that the King's speech can be summarized as striving for a stronger and more independent Morocco, with effective institutions, active regions, and an engaged youth, and the citizen at the core of all policies.
The King's speech also touched on Morocco's partnership with Spain, noting significant developments in various fields. However, the monarch emphasized that cooperation in combating irregular migration faces considerable challenges. Morocco has adopted a balanced approach to managing the migration phenomenon, yielding tangible results.
In a related development, Fatima Zahra El Mansouri, the head of government tasked with forming a new government, has begun consultations with party leaders. These talks follow her appointment by King Mohammed VI. El Mansouri's discussions aim to establish a coalition government, with the first meeting held with Mohamed Chouki, leader of the National Rally of Independents.
Meanwhile, the National Union of Consumer Associations has presented a memorandum with 10 recommendations to protect purchasing power. These recommendations include establishing a national price observatory, combating speculation and intermediation, and promoting transparency in the fuel sector. The union called for temporary solutions as part of a proactive public policy that protects vulnerable groups.
Key points
- The King's speech emphasized creating a strong and independent economy.
- The speech also prioritized genuine regionalization and youth development.
- Morocco's partnership with Spain was highlighted, along with challenges in combating irregular migration.
