Political Gridlock in Asfi: Mayor Awaits Interior Ministry’s Decision
The fate of the mayor of Asfi hangs in the balance as the Moroccan Interior Ministry is expected to announce a decision regarding his political future in the coming weeks. This follows a period of intense scrutiny and a potential political deadlock within the city council.
The mayor, a member of the Istiqlal Party, has been under fire following a report by the General Inspectorate of Territorial Administration. This report, issued under Article 64 of the Organic Law on Territorial Communities, raised concerns about the mayor’s management of the city.
Approximately 20 days ago, the regional governor formally requested clarification from the mayor on several points outlined in the report. These points pertained to the management of communal property, revenue and expenditure related to delegated management, urban planning, and administrative licenses. Article 64 mandates a response within ten days, and the mayor has since submitted his explanations.
However, the situation escalated last week when the regional governor forwarded a report to the Interior Ministry. This report included the mayor’s responses alongside the governor’s own observations and two previous letters expressing concern about the situation in Asfi.
This development has fueled anticipation and uncertainty among elected officials. The Interior Ministry’s decision holds significant weight, as Article 64 grants them the authority to suspend the mayor and refer the case to the administrative court for potential dismissal.
The political climate in Asfi has been tense, with the mayor facing a loss of majority support within the city council, leading to a prolonged period of gridlock. The Interior Ministry’s decision will likely have a profound impact on the city’s political landscape and its ability to effectively govern in the near future.
