Whispers of Change: Morocco Braces for Cabinet Reshuffle
Speculation is swirling in Moroccan politics as a potential cabinet reshuffle looms, hinted at by none other than the Minister of Justice himself.
During the 29th session of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) parliament, held in Salé on Saturday, Minister of Justice Abdelatif Ouahbi appeared to be saying his goodbyes. In a conversation with party members Samir Kodar and Larbi Elmharchi, he remarked, “I came to ask for your forgiveness if we don’t see each other again on Monday or Tuesday.” This cryptic statement is being interpreted as a strong indication that a government reshuffle is imminent.
The anticipated reshuffle comes in the wake of a vacancy created by the departure of Chakib Benmoussa, former Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports. Benmoussa was appointed by King Mohammed VI as the High Commissioner for Planning, succeeding Ahmed Lahlimi Alami.
Sources suggest that the reshuffle, expected to take place early next week, will see the current government spokesperson and Minister Delegate for Relations with Parliament assume the role of Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports. Furthermore, Lahcen Saadi, a prominent figure in the National Rally of Independents (RNI) and head of the Finance and Economic Development Committee in the House of Representatives, is rumored to be in line for the government spokesperson position.
While the overall structure of the government is expected to remain unchanged, sources indicate that the reshuffle could affect up to ten ministerial positions. New faces from various parties within the governing coalition are anticipated to be brought in. Additionally, the appointment of new Secretaries of State is also on the cards, potentially strengthening the government’s second iteration.
Cabinet reshuffles are a common occurrence in political landscapes worldwide, often reflecting a government’s need to adapt to changing circumstances, address internal challenges, or signal new policy directions. In Morocco, this reshuffle comes at a time of significant economic recovery efforts following the COVID-19 pandemic. The changes, if they materialize as predicted, will likely be analyzed closely for their potential impact on the government’s agenda and the country’s future trajectory.
