The Moroccan National Press Council has elected a new president, Moukhtar Lghzioui, and a deputy, Hanane Rahab, in a session marked by controversy and divisions. The election took place on September 15, 2026, with 1681 journalists participating out of 3421 registered, representing a 49.14% turnout. Lghzioui's election was followed by Rahab's appointment as deputy president, but the session was marred by walkouts and abstentions.
The election results saw Hanane Rahab top the list with 703 votes, followed by Abdullah Al-Baqali, the former president of the Moroccan National Journalists' Union, and Abdelkbir Akchichine, who came third. However, during the vote for the deputy president, Rahab received 11 votes, while three members abstained and three others walked out in protest. This development highlighted the ongoing divisions within the journalism community.
The Moroccan journalism community has high hopes for the new council, particularly in addressing the challenges posed by digital transformation and artificial intelligence. The council is also expected to reform the professional card system and uphold journalistic ethics. With the new leadership, journalists from various backgrounds are looking forward to improvements in their working conditions and social status.
Abdullah Al-Baqali, who came third in the election, is expected to play a key role in bridging the divisions within the council. As a former union president, Al-Baqali is well-positioned to work alongside the new president to rebuild trust and address the concerns of the journalism community. The council faces significant challenges in restoring credibility to the profession and ensuring the protection of journalists' rights.
The new council will need to prioritize the development of training programs and opportunities for journalists, particularly those from vulnerable groups. The council's success will depend on its ability to address the pressing issues facing the journalism community, including improving working conditions, providing legal protection, and promoting fairness and equality.
The Moroccan National Press Council's new leadership will need to navigate the complex landscape of journalism in Morocco, balancing the interests of various stakeholders while promoting the highest standards of journalism. The council's effectiveness will be closely watched by the journalism community and the public at large.
Ultimately, the success of the new council will depend on its ability to deliver on its promises and address the concerns of the journalism community. With the right leadership and a commitment to transparency and accountability, the council can play a vital role in promoting a free and independent press in Morocco.
Key points
- The Moroccan National Press Council has elected a new president, Moukhtar Lghzioui, and a deputy, Hanane Rahab, amid controversy and divisions within the country's journalism community.
