PPS Loses Economic Forum President Mohamed Benmoussa Following Resignation

14:00

Moroccan economist Mohamed Benmoussa has resigned from the Party of Progress and Socialism (PPS), ending his membership of the left-wing political party and stepping down as head of its economists’ forum.

The resignation was announced in a letter dated October 21, 2026, addressed to PPS Secretary-General Nabil Benabdallah and members of the party’s political bureau. Benmoussa confirmed his departure from both the party and his position as president of the Forum of Economists of Progress, without publicly detailing the reasons behind his decision.

His departure comes at a significant moment for the PPS, which recently decided to participate in Morocco’s new government, adding political context to a resignation whose precise motivations remain undisclosed.

A Departure Without a Public Explanation

Benmoussa’s letter formally communicates his decision to leave the party and relinquish his responsibilities within its economic forum. However, the document does not identify any internal dispute, policy disagreement or personal consideration as the reason for his departure.

The absence of an explanation leaves open questions about the circumstances surrounding the decision. Any connection between his resignation and the party’s recent political choices remains unconfirmed.

Benmoussa had become one of the party’s figures associated with economic expertise, contributing professional and academic experience to discussions on economic reform and public policy.

A Career Spanning Economics and Public Affairs

Beyond his party responsibilities, Benmoussa has built a career in economics, finance and higher education. He has also served as a member of Morocco’s Special Commission on the Development Model, which worked on proposals for the country’s long-term development strategy.

He joined the PPS after leaving the Istiqlal Party, bringing his economic background into a new political setting. In 2023, he helped advance the creation of the Forum of Economists of Progress, an initiative intended to develop economic and social policy proposals within the party. He subsequently became its president in 2024.

His involvement in public debate has included questions relating to economic policy and the future of La Samir, Morocco’s former oil refinery in Mohammedia. In September 2026, he also stepped down from the vice-presidency of the National Front for the Safeguarding of the Moroccan Petroleum Refinery, leaving that organisation as well.

The two departures, occurring within a period of less than a month, mark a significant change in his involvement with political and advocacy organisations. Neither resignation letter, however, establishes a direct link between the decisions.

The PPS Faces a New Political Phase

Benmoussa’s resignation comes after the PPS announced on October 12 that it would participate in the new government. The decision followed internal deliberations and consultations over the proposed government programme and the composition of the incoming majority.

The party presented participation in government as a means of contributing to reforms, strengthening social and territorial justice, protecting rights and freedoms, and supporting the national economy.

Against this backdrop, the departure of a prominent economic figure may prompt questions about the party’s internal dynamics and future policy direction. Nevertheless, there is no confirmed evidence that Benmoussa’s resignation was a response to the decision to join the government.

For now, the immediate outcome is clear: the economist has relinquished both his PPS membership and leadership of its economic forum. The reasons behind the move, and whether he intends to pursue another political or institutional role, have not been publicly established.