Historic Appointment of Morocco’s First Female Prime Minister

On September 29, 2026, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI appointed Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as the nation’s new prime minister. At 50 years old, El Mansouri not only becomes the first woman to hold this position in Morocco but also the third woman to serve as prime minister in the Arab world.

A Historic Milestone

In a statement delivered by the royal palace, it was disclosed that El Mansouri, who previously served as the urban planning minister and the mayor of Marrakesh, has been tasked with forming a new government. During her inaugural televised address, she remarked, “For the first time in our country’s history, a woman is taking on the responsibility of leading the government. This is a source of pride not only for me but for all Moroccan women.”

Background and Political Landscape

The appointment follows the recent elections where El Mansouri’s party, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), garnered the highest number of votes, securing 97 out of 395 seats in Morocco’s House of Representatives, its lower parliamentary chamber. Despite this victory, PAM fell significantly short of the 198 seats required for a majority, making coalition-building her immediate priority.

Founded in 2008 by Fouad Ali El Himma, a close associate of the king, PAM has signaled its readiness to collaborate with various political parties. However, some groups, including the Justice and Development Party (PJD) and the Federation of Democratic Left, have expressed intent to remain in opposition.

Future Challenges and Opportunities

The upcoming coalition government is expected to oversee significant investment initiatives in anticipation of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host alongside Spain and Portugal. El Mansouri’s leadership will be pivotal in directing these investments effectively.

Personal and Professional Journey

Born in Marrakesh in 1976, El Mansouri has a robust educational background, holding a diploma in advanced studies in law from the University of Montpellier and additional qualifications in Anglo-Saxon business law from New York University. Her political career began in local governance when she was elected mayor of Marrakesh in 2009, making history as the first woman to occupy this role. After completing her first term, she returned to serve in the municipal council following the 2021 elections.

El Mansouri’s role in national politics began in October 2021 when she was appointed as Minister of National Spatial Planning, Urban Development, Housing, and Urban Policy. In this capacity, she managed key initiatives, including direct housing support and urban planning reforms, as well as efforts related to rehousing victims of the 2023 Al Haouz earthquake.

Conclusion

Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri’s appointment represents a significant step forward for gender representation in Moroccan politics and the broader Arab world. As she embarks on this new chapter in leadership, the eyes of the nation—and beyond—will be on her to gauge the impact of her tenure on both governance and women’s empowerment in the region.