On October 16, King Mohammed VI of Morocco appointed a new government led by Prime Minister Fatima Zohra Al Mansouri, marking a historic moment as the first woman to hold such a position in Morocco’s history. This groundbreaking appointment has garnered significant attention from international media, highlighting Morocco’s progressive steps towards gender equality in leadership.
Al Mansouri, representing the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), emerged victorious in the recent parliamentary elections held in September. Founded by Ali Himma, a close ally of the king, PAM secured the most seats and has since aligned with three other parties to form a coalition government. This coalition underscores a commitment to maintaining stability within Morocco’s political framework, allowing for a continuation of established governance practices.
PAM’s evolution is critical to understanding the direction of the new government. Established in 2008, the party was initially positioned to counter the influence of political Islam, specifically the Justice and Development Party (PJD). The Arab Spring catalyzed political reform and offered more spaces for diverse political voices, including the emergence of groups like the PJD, which significantly curtailed the absolute dominance of the establishment, known as the Makhzen.
Despite its origins, PAM has worked diligently to reinvent its image in the political landscape. Through strategic participation in government coalitions, particularly in 2021, the party has cultivated its legitimacy. The recent elections saw PAM finally achieve a significant breakthrough, though the overall voter turnout was disappointing, with 62 percent of eligible voters abstaining. The government had to encourage citizens to participate actively in the electoral process.
Nevertheless, the election process faced scrutiny, with allegations of irregularities and the late introduction of high-profile figures into party ranks, exemplified by the joining of Faouzi Laaqjea, the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation. This last-minute inclusion raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the motivations behind such moves.
In addressing the political landscape, the newly established government has maintained a significant number of members from the previous administration, including key ministries that fall under the king’s direct oversight. This continuity has led some Moroccans to question the efficacy of recent elections, as familiar figures return to positions of power.
Looking ahead, the new government has pledged to tackle pressing social issues exacerbated by a growing cost-of-living crisis. During its inaugural Council of Ministers meeting, the administration introduced a Finance Bill emphasizing social welfare initiatives, particularly for youth inclusion and enhancing citizens’ purchasing power. However, challenges loom due to a volatile global economy, particularly the rising prices of energy and essential goods, impacting Morocco’s economic drivers, such as phosphate production.
The state-owned OCP Group, a key player in Morocco’s economy, faces several hurdles as it navigates challenging market conditions. Additionally, the lingering effects of climate phenomena like El Niño pose threats to food security, especially following seven years of drought.
Tourism, another vital economic sector, may also experience setbacks due to global travel disruptions and increasing transport costs amidst geopolitical tensions. As public sentiment appears skeptical, the newly appointed government will be compelled to showcase effective governance and responsive leadership in the face of opposition from parties like the PJD and the radical left.
Overall, while the new government has ambitious plans for reform, its effectiveness will be measured against a backdrop of significant domestic and international challenges, shaping its legacy in Moroccan history.
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