Fez-Meknes Tourism Leadership in Turmoil: The Dual Council Dilemma

Thursday 08 February 2024 - 08:45

The enchanting city of Fez, Morocco, with its ancient medinas and rich cultural tapestry, has long been a magnet for tourists. However, recent years have seen the rise of unsettling challenges, including accusations of mismanagement, corruption, and governance failures at the local level.

This week witnessed a pivotal moment in the region's tourism landscape with the emergence of two competing Regional Tourism Councils (CRTs), each vying for legitimacy in representing the Fez-Meknes territory.

In a landmark event on Thursday, Moulay Ahmed Sentissi secured the presidency of one CRT, garnering an overwhelming 47 out of 49 votes. With a diverse board of 25 members drawn from across Fez-Meknes provinces, Sentissi's council appeared poised to steer tourism in a new direction.

However, amidst the jubilation, a shadow of uncertainty loomed as Aziz Lebbar, the incumbent CRT president, called for a General Assembly meeting on February 19, hinting at the formation of a rival council.

The announcement left stakeholders perplexed, with one industry insider expressing anonymously, "Who should we trust and follow now, the new council or the old?"

For a city often likened to the "Athens of Africa," the emergence of two rival tourism councils exacerbates existing woes, including financial irregularities, corruption probes, and infrastructure decay, tarnishing Fez's illustrious heritage.

Dubbed the "Tale of Two Councils" by locals, this saga underscores the deep-seated uncertainties plaguing the Fez-Meknes region. Once the crown jewel of Moroccan tourism, Fez now faces a pivotal moment of introspection, as it seeks to mend divisions, rebuild trust, and reclaim its position as a linchpin in the national tourism landscape. All eyes remain fixed on the rival CRTs as they navigate this precarious terrain.