The newly formed Moroccan government has unveiled its 2017-2021 plan as a continuation of the “reforms” launched by the previous government notably in terms of boosting advanced regionalization, promoting employment and social cohesion and consolidating Morocco’s international influence as well as safeguarding the country’s democratic choice. In his first address as head of government before the Parliament, Saad Eddine El Othmani underscored the need to forge ahead on the path of reforms launched under the government led by his predecessor, the Secretary General of the Party for Justice and Development, Abdelilah Benkirane. El Othmani added that fighting all forms of discrimination and violence against women are also part of the government’s agenda. Ensuring the separation of powers and promoting the role of the press as well as the status of journalists are also among the concerns of the new government, he told MPs. The parliament is expected to spend this week discussing the program before ultimately voting on whether to approve it – a hurdle Othmani will need to pass in order to be inaugurated.

Source: The North Africa Journal April 20, 2017 22:41 UTC