In a historic move, King Mohammed VI of Morocco has appointed Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as the country's first female head of government. El Mansouri, 50, is the coordinator of the collective leadership of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), which secured the largest number of seats in the recent parliamentary elections. The PAM won 97 seats in the House of Representatives, ahead of the National Rally of Independents with 66 seats and the Istiqlal Party with 65.
El Mansouri's appointment was made in accordance with Article 47 of the Moroccan constitution, which states that the king appoints the head of government from the party that wins the most seats. Despite not achieving an absolute majority, El Mansouri will now be tasked with forming a new Cabinet through negotiations with other parties. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in Moroccan politics, as she becomes the first woman to hold the position of head of government.
Following her appointment, El Mansouri expressed her gratitude and honour in being entrusted with leading the next government. She announced that consultations would begin with her party and other political forces to form the new Cabinet. El Mansouri emphasized that the government would strive to meet the aspirations of the king and the Moroccan people, proposing practical and realistic solutions to address the expectations of young people.
El Mansouri has a strong background in politics and law, having served as mayor of Marrakesh and minister of national territorial planning, urban planning, housing and city policy since 2021. She began her political career in Marrakesh, becoming the city's first female mayor in 2009 at the age of 33. El Mansouri has also served several terms as a member of parliament and became part of PAM's three-member collective leadership in 2024.
The new government will face significant economic and social challenges, including concerns over employment and young people's prospects. El Mansouri's government will also oversee major infrastructure and investment projects, particularly in preparation for Morocco's co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal. These projects are expected to have a substantial impact on the country's development and growth.
As a trained lawyer, El Mansouri brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her appointment is seen as a significant step forward for women's representation in Moroccan politics. The king's decision to appoint her as head of government reflects the country's efforts to promote gender equality and provide more opportunities for women in leadership positions.
El Mansouri's government is expected to prioritize addressing the country's economic and social challenges, while also driving growth and development through major infrastructure projects. Her experience as mayor of Marrakesh and minister of national territorial planning will likely be valuable assets in her new role. The success of her government will depend on her ability to negotiate with other parties and deliver on her promises to the Moroccan people.
Key points
- Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri becomes Morocco's first female head of government.
- El Mansouri's appointment follows the Authenticity and Modernity Party's win in parliamentary elections.
- The new government will face significant economic and social challenges, including concerns over employment and young people's prospects.
