Tangier Elects New District President After Corruption Scandal
Tangier has a new leader at the helm of its city district. Hamid Abrchan, of the Constitutional Union party, was elected president on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, marking a fresh start after the ousting of the previous president, Mohamed Cherkaoui, due to administrative misconduct.
Abrchan ran unopposed and secured a comfortable victory, garnering 37 out of 40 votes. Two members of the Unified Socialist Party abstained. This election signifies a shift in leadership and offers a chance for renewed focus on the city’s priorities.
Abrchan’s election comes as part of a broader political landscape in Morocco. His party, the Constitutional Union, is a member of the “Quadruple Alliance,” a coalition that also includes the National Rally of Independents (RNI), Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), and the Istiqlal Party. This alliance holds significant sway in Moroccan politics, and Abrchan’s victory solidifies their influence in Tangier. Coalition governments are a common feature of parliamentary systems worldwide, often requiring parties to negotiate and compromise to achieve common goals. Similar to how coalitions operate in other countries, like Germany or Israel, the success of the Quadruple Alliance hinges on its ability to maintain unity and effectively address the needs of its constituents.
The election also saw the appointment of new deputy presidents. Kamilia Boutmou and Abdelouahed Boulaich, both from the RNI, were elected as the seventh and eighth deputy presidents, respectively. Saeed Benamer, of the Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP), secured the ninth deputy presidency with 33 out of 40 votes. These appointments further shape the leadership structure of the Tangier city district and will play a crucial role in implementing the new administration’s agenda.
This change in leadership follows a significant legal decision. In mid-October, the Administrative Court of Tangier ruled to remove Cherkaoui from his position as president and member of the Tangier Municipal Council. Three of his deputies were also dismissed. The court’s decision cited “irregularities” in the management of the district, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency in local governance. This echoes similar anti-corruption efforts seen globally, where citizens are increasingly demanding greater integrity from their elected officials. The dismissal serves as a reminder of the consequences of mismanagement and underscores the need for ethical leadership. Further information on the specifics of the irregularities and the legal proceedings could provide valuable context and enhance public understanding of the situation. (Unfortunately, specific details regarding the Cherkaoui case are difficult to find in English-language sources. More information may be available in French or Arabic publications focusing on Moroccan news.)
With Abrchan now at the helm, Tangier residents anticipate a new chapter in local governance. The focus will likely shift towards addressing the city’s pressing needs, such as infrastructure development, economic growth, and social services. The effectiveness of the new administration and its ability to deliver on its promises will be closely watched by the public. The transition of power presents both challenges and opportunities for Tangier, and the coming months will be crucial in shaping the city’s future.
Keywords: Tangier, Morocco, Hamid Abrchan, Mohamed Cherkaoui, Constitutional Union, Quadruple Alliance, RNI, PAM, USFP, local elections, corruption, administrative misconduct, political coalition, city governance.
