Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri has been appointed as Morocco’s first female prime minister following the national elections held on September 23, according to reports from Reuters and AFP. The 50-year-old leader, who previously served as the mayor of Marrakech and as minister for urban planning and housing, reached the top of government after campaigning as a prime ministerial candidate for the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM).
Political Background and Historic Appointment
El Mansouri’s rise marks a significant milestone in Moroccan politics. When the news agency AFP asked her about the possibility of becoming prime minister on September 24, she responded that it would be a “great ære.” Her appointment crowns a political career that already includes a historic first in 2009, when she became the first female mayor of Marrakech.
Before stepping into her new role leading the government, El Mansouri served in the cabinet as the minister responsible for urban planning and housing. She studied law in France and practiced as an attorney before entering politics. Within the Authenticity and Modernity Party, she holds one of the top leadership positions, guiding the political organization’s platform on national governance.
Key Campaign Priorities and Youth Engagement
Ahead of the September 23 election, El Mansouri focused heavily on rebuilding public trust in the political system, particularly among younger voters. According to reporting by Maroc24, the Authenticity and Modernity Party specifically targeted youth disenfranchisement as a central challenge for the country’s leadership.
Her platform identified three primary areas requiring immediate policy attention:
- Improving the quality of national education systems
- Expanding vocational training programs across regions
- Creating accessible pathways to enter the formal labor market
Background and campaign focus of prime minister Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri
Who is Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri?
Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri is Morocco’s prime minister and a top leader in the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM). She is a 50-year-old attorney, former mayor of Marrakech, and former minister of housing and urban planning.
When was she appointed prime minister?
Her appointment followed the national elections held on September 23, with updates regarding her new government role published by Reuters and AFP in late September.
What did she focus on during her campaign?
Her campaign emphasized restoring young people’s trust in politics, reforming education, expanding vocational training, and generating jobs.
Did she hold prior government offices?
Yes. She served as the mayor of Marrakech starting in 2009—becoming the city’s first female mayor—and later worked as the national minister for urban planning and housing.
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