Morocco's Mansouri defends new government structure
The head of government addressed parliament, explaining decisions on ministerial appointments and budget deadlines.
Head of government Fatima Zahra Mansouri defended her new administration before the House of Councillors on October 21, addressing accusations of disorder and continuity with the previous government. She explained the dismissal of vocational training minister Madiha Khayr, stating that concerns about Khayr's past emerged only after her appointment. Mansouri requested Khayr's dismissal from King Mohammed VI, who approved it, citing difficulties in overseeing public funds.
Mansouri also defended the government's decision to approve and submit the draft 2027 Finance Bill before securing parliamentary confidence, emphasizing the need to meet the October 20 statutory deadline. She described this as an achievement that prevented financial year delays, though constitutional experts have raised disagreements about the legality of proceeding before investiture.
Furthermore, Mansouri rejected claims that her government was merely a continuation of the previous one led by Aziz Akhannouch. She dismissed the National Rally of Independents' accusation that her coalition reproduced past policies without a distinct agenda, stating that her government was formed around shared political choices. She also explained that rural development was moved from the Agriculture Ministry due to the failure of previous programs to yield expected improvements for rural residents.
Why it mattersMoroccan citizens are affected by the government's decisions regarding ministerial appointments, budget processes, and rural development programs.