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Politics

Midterm Review: Akhannouch Highlights Government's Achievements

Thursday 09 May 2024 - 12:20

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In a comprehensive assessment of the government's midterm performance, Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch presented a largely positive outlook on the administration's accomplishments to date. Addressing the House of Representatives on Wednesday, Akhannouch asserted that the government has "honored most of its commitments before the midterm mark." He substantiated this claim by providing a detailed account of his team's accomplishments.

Out of the 40 commitments outlined in the government's program, the majority have been fulfilled, according to Akhannouch. The most recent achievement was the signing, on the eve of May 1st, of the social dialogue agreement, which encompassed a wage increase for employees in both the public and private sectors. Notably, this agreement included a 20% hike in the minimum wage for non-agricultural activities and a 25% increase for agricultural activities, complemented by direct housing support and stabilization of electricity and transportation prices.

In the social sphere, Akhannouch highlighted ongoing efforts "to ensure the financial viability of various programs," such as the Compulsory Health Insurance (AMO), direct social assistance, and direct housing aid. He emphasized that efforts are also concentrated on securing the financial sustainability of social programs, with an increase in resources allocated to the Social Cohesion Support Fund and a stabilization of direct aid expenditures, which are projected to reach 38 billion dirhams by 2026.

Notably, the anticipated growth in budgetary resources will enable the government to cover the expenses associated with the social dialogue, which are expected to exceed 44 billion dirhams by 2026.

Furthermore, Akhannouch underscored the government's sound management of public finances and the activation of the framework law on fiscal reform. He highlighted that tax revenues reached nearly 325 billion dirhams in 2023, reflecting an increase of approximately 100 billion dirhams compared to 2020.

The Head of Government also estimated that 70% of Moroccan families have benefited from the measures implemented under the government's program. Finally, he expressed satisfaction with the containment of inflation, which declined from 9.1% during the first three months of 2023 to 1.2% this year.

Akhannouch's midterm review showcased the government's determination to fulfill its commitments, while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead. As the administration navigates the second half of its term, the focus remains on sustaining economic stability, bolstering social programs, and ensuring the well-being of Moroccan citizens through targeted policies and initiatives.