Morocco's Justice Minister and former Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) leader Abdellatif Ouahbi has denied reports that he has been appointed as the country's next head of government. The reports emerged after PAM's victory in the September 23 legislative elections, claiming that Ouahbi had received the appointment. Ouahbi took to the media to reject the reports, calling them "nonsense" and stating that he was unaware of the rumors until he was informed by others.
The reports of Ouahbi's supposed appointment as head of government were widely circulated by several media outlets and social media accounts. However, Ouahbi stated that he was taking a nap when he learned of the news and was surprised to find out that such reports were being spread. The Justice Minister's denial comes as discussions continue over who will lead the next government, with several PAM figures being mentioned as possible candidates for the post.
Among those mentioned as potential candidates for the position are Fatima-Zahra El Mansouri, coordinator of PAM's collective leadership, Fouzi Lekjaa, a prominent figure who joined PAM during the electoral campaign, and Mehdi Bensaid, a member of the party's leadership and outgoing Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication. El Mansouri had stated after the election that she would accept the position if King Mohammed VI appointed her, while stressing that the decision ultimately rests with the King.
Morocco held its legislative elections on September 23, with PAM emerging as the largest political force with 97 seats in the 395-member House of Representatives. The National Rally of Independents (RNI) followed with 66 seats, while the Istiqlal Party secured 65. The Justice and Development Party (PJD) won 54 seats, followed by the Popular Movement (MP) with 29 seats.
Under Article 47 of Morocco's Constitution, the King appoints the head of government from the political party that wins the largest number of seats in the House of Representatives. Despite PAM's victory, the Royal Cabinet has not announced the appointment of the next head of government. The Royal Cabinet is expected to make an announcement in the coming days, following the completion of the electoral process and the formation of the new parliamentary majority.
Until an official announcement is made, the identity of the person who will lead the next government remains unknown. The King's decision on who will be appointed as head of government is highly anticipated, with various stakeholders and citizens alike waiting to see who will take on the role. The appointment will likely have significant implications for Morocco's future governance and policy direction.
The situation remains uncertain, with many waiting for the Royal Cabinet's official announcement. As the largest party in the House of Representatives, PAM has a significant advantage in the formation of the next government. However, the final decision on who will lead the government rests with King Mohammed VI, and his choice will likely be influenced by various factors, including the party's internal dynamics and the country's overall political landscape.
Key points
- Abdellatif Ouahbi denies reports that he has been appointed as Morocco's next head of government.
- The Royal Cabinet has not announced the appointment of the next head of government, despite PAM's victory in the legislative elections.
- The King's decision on who will be appointed as head of government is expected to be announced in the coming days.
