The appointment of Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as Head of Government marks a historic moment for Morocco. For the first time, a woman has been called upon to lead the Kingdom’s government.
Yet the significance of this appointment extends well beyond its symbolic dimension. It is the culmination of an evolution set in motion more than a quarter of a century ago and, once again, reflects Morocco’s ability to move forward while respecting its institutions and preserving the balances that underpin its stability.
In exercising his constitutional prerogatives in strict accordance with the Constitution, His Majesty King Mohammed VI gives this appointment its full institutional weight. It also reaffirms a defining feature of his reign: advancing the Kingdom with determination while safeguarding the foundations of its stability.
Since his accession to the Throne, Morocco has undergone profound change. The strengthening of the rule of law and a culture of human rights, the reform of the Moudawana, the growing role of women in public, economic and institutional life, and the attention devoted to youth have gradually transformed Moroccan society.
On these fundamental issues, King Mohammed VI has been both a forerunner and a guardian of balance. He has repeatedly anticipated the evolution of Moroccan society, opening paths that have, over time, helped shape the Morocco of today.
The place of women is among the clearest expressions of that transformation. What was once a matter of debate has progressively become a social and institutional reality, reaching the highest level of government.
The appointment of Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri is a natural part of this evolution. She assumes this responsibility with a record that has prepared her for it: a trained lawyer and attorney, an elected official, a former minister, Mayor of Marrakech and a political leader. She knows the realities on the ground, the workings of the state and the demands of public responsibility. Her openness and closeness to citizens are further assets as she takes on her new mission.
Now begins the time for action.
The responsibility is immense. Morocco is entering a decisive stage in its development. It must continue its economic and social transformation, respond to the aspirations of a better-educated and more demanding younger generation, reduce disparities, strengthen the effectiveness of public action and carry forward the major projects undertaken by the Kingdom.
At the same time, Morocco must consolidate its strategic choices and its international standing: that of a stable and ambitious country, steadfast in its fundamental principles and fully open to the world.
It is against these demands that the record of the new Head of Government will ultimately be assessed.
This new chapter is thus part of the continuing journey of a Morocco moving forward with confidence, faithful to its balances and resolutely focused on the future.
Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri now has both the honor and the responsibility of carrying this ambition forward.
L’Observateur wishes her every success.
