Morocco has a new government. On Friday, October 16, 2026, King Mohammed VI presided over the swearing-in ceremony at the Royal Palace in Rabat for the new administration led by Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri, the first woman to serve as Head of Government in the Kingdom’s history.
With 32 members, including seven women, the new cabinet combines experienced ministers in key positions with fresh faces, reflecting Morocco’s ambition to balance political stability with modernization and prepare the country for the challenges ahead.
A Team Combining Experience and Renewal
Less than three weeks after her appointment, Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri unveiled a 32-member government comprising the Head of Government, 19 ministers, the Secretary-General of the Government, and 11 deputy ministers. The members took their oath of office before the King, followed by the traditional official photograph.
Key sovereign ministries remain in the hands of experienced figures, reinforcing continuity and stability. Abdelouafi Laftit retains the Interior portfolio, Nasser Bourita remains Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdellatif Ouahbi continues at the Justice Ministry, and Ahmed Toufiq remains in charge of Religious Endowments and Islamic Affairs.
Fouzi Lekjaa takes over the Economy, Finance and Public Performance portfolio, while Nizar Baraka sees his responsibilities expanded to include Infrastructure, Water and Forests. Nabil Benabdallah also makes his return as Minister of National Education.
Women account for seven members of the new cabinet, including Charafat Afailal, who will oversee Energy, Mines and Sustainable Development, and Najwa Koukouss, appointed Minister of Family Affairs, Social Development and Equality. Their presence reflects the government’s commitment to broader representation in national decision-making.
Backed by the PAM, Istiqlal, the USFP and the PPS, the governing coalition commands an absolute majority of 207 seats in the House of Representatives, providing a solid parliamentary foundation for its reform agenda.
Ministries Designed to Meet Tomorrow’s Challenges
The new government’s structure highlights Morocco’s strategic priorities, with a stronger emphasis on technological innovation, economic development, public-sector reform and social progress.
For the first time, artificial intelligence features explicitly in the title of a full-fledged ministry. Entrusted to Ahmed Rahhou, the ministry brings together artificial intelligence, digital transformation and administrative reform, signalling the Kingdom’s determination to accelerate its digital transition and modernize public services.
Industry, trade, investment and economic inclusion are now grouped under Ryad Mezzour’s leadership, while the Ministry of National Education incorporates preschool education and vocational training. A dedicated Ministry of Employment and Social Dialogue has also been established, underscoring the importance of job creation and dialogue between social partners.
Sports have been brought together with Youth and Culture under Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, as Morocco steps up preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host. This arrangement reflects the growing role of sport in the country’s international ambitions, cultural influence and development strategy.
Samir Belfkih, Minister of Housing, has additionally been appointed government spokesperson.
The new administration’s first major task is already on the horizon: submitting the 2027 Finance Bill before October 20. This initial deadline will provide an early indication of the government’s priorities and its ability to translate its ambitions into concrete action.
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