July 30, 2026

The African Tribune

Bold, independent reporting on Africa's most important stories, in English, every day.

The moroccan premiership: a look at the leading contenders for 2026

With Morocco’s legislative elections on the horizon in September 2026, political circles are already abuzz with speculation over who might step into the pivotal role of head of government. The intensifying race to succeed the current Prime Minister, Aziz Akhannouch, is drawing significant attention to a diverse field of potential candidates.

Morocco 2026: who wants a place at the premiership?

Autour d’Aziz Akhannouch (au premier plan), l’actuel chef du gouvernement marocain, des personnalités susceptibles de lui succéder en septembre 2026. De g. à dr. : Mostafa Terrab, Nizar Baraka, Abdelouafi Laftit, Younes Sekkouri, Nadia Fettah Alaoui et Fouzi Lekjaâ.

Many prominent figures are openly expressing their desire to lead the nation. The field includes individuals who possess significant financial resources and political influence but may lack broad public appeal or the necessary popular mandate to command the premiership. Conversely, others boast impressive credentials and widespread public recognition yet struggle to garner sufficient electoral support to secure the top governmental post, known as the Mechouar Saïd.

Among those frequently mentioned as potential successors to Aziz Akhannouch are figures such as Mostafa Terrab, Nizar Baraka, Abdelouafi Laftit, Younes Sekkouri, Nadia Fettah Alaoui, and Fouzi Lekjaâ. Each brings a unique profile and set of experiences to Morocco’s dynamic political landscape. Their candidacies could significantly reshape the kingdom’s political balances following the crucial legislative vote. The coming months will undoubtedly reveal more about who among these contenders truly possesses the capacity to lead Morocco’s next government.