Morocco’s Government Explains Madiha Khayr’s Dismissal, Citing Institutional Responsibility

09:40

RABAT, Morocco — The Moroccan government has defended its rapid decision to end Madiha Khayr’s appointment as minister delegate in charge of vocational training and qualification, describing the move as a measure intended to protect the constitutional process and allow the government to focus on its policy commitments.

Samir Belfkih, Minister of National Territorial Planning, Urban Planning, Housing and City Policy and government spokesperson, said the swift handling of the appointment reflected the executive’s institutional responsibilities and its determination to establish the necessary conditions for completing the government formation process.

In a statement, Belfkih also referred to the circulation of personal information concerning Khayr, including judicial and medical details, in the public debate surrounding her appointment.

Constitutional Procedure Behind the Decision

According to the government spokesperson, the decision followed a shared political and institutional assessment among members of the governing majority, who reiterated their commitment to ensuring the success of the government’s term.

The head of government subsequently submitted a request to His Majesty King Mohammed VI to terminate Khayr’s duties, invoking the powers provided for under Article 47, paragraph four, of the Moroccan Constitution.

The request received His Majesty’s approval, according to the Royal Cabinet statement referenced by the government.

The authorities presented the procedure as part of the constitutional framework governing ministerial appointments and the termination of government functions.

Government Seeks to Refocus Public Debate

Belfkih argued that the issue should not overshadow the government's broader programme or the expectations of Moroccan citizens.

The government spokesperson stressed the importance of directing public discussion back towards policy priorities and the general interest, while maintaining the governing coalition’s commitment to carrying out its responsibilities.

His remarks suggest that the executive wants to contain the institutional and political repercussions of the controversy surrounding Khayr’s appointment and departure.

The reference to personal judicial and medical information also places the public debate over the appointment within a wider discussion about the handling of sensitive personal details. The government statement, however, did not provide further details about those matters.

Parliamentary Investiture Remains a Priority

The government linked the rapid decision to the next stages of the constitutional process, particularly parliamentary investiture, which would allow the executive to move towards implementing its programme and fulfilling its commitments to citizens.

Belfkih said the priority was to complete the required institutional procedures and enable the government to concentrate on its policy agenda.

The episode therefore comes with a clear message from the executive: the controversy surrounding an individual appointment should not derail the broader process of establishing the government’s institutional footing and advancing its commitments.