Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri: A Pioneering Leader in Morocco
In a significant milestone for Morocco, Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri was appointed as the nation's first female prime minister last month. This historic moment has drawn attention to her past interactions with the Jewish community, particularly a heartwarming story from years ago when she, then the mayor of Marrakech, sought a blessing from Jacky Kadoch at his synagogue during Yom Kippur. Kadoch, now 72 and the president of Marrakech's Jewish community, reflects on the many requests for blessings he has received from both Muslim and Jewish individuals, emphasizing the respect shared among different faiths in Morocco.
As the Jewish population in Morocco has dwindled over the years, with estimates ranging from 1,000 to 2,500, the community is now looking to El Mansouri's government for critical support. They are particularly eager for the implementation of community elections that were promised by King Mohammed VI in 2022 but have yet to materialize. Under the current rules, women are denied voting rights and community members lack the ability to elect their own leaders.
Challenges Facing Jewish Communities in Morocco
Morocco's constitution outlines the prime minister's responsibilities, which include managing the economy, education, and healthcare, while the king oversees security and foreign relations. This unique arrangement means that Jewish communities continue to be governed through palace directives, despite the recognition of Hebrew heritage as an integral part of the national identity in the 2011 constitution. However, the governance structures for these communities remain rooted in outdated regulations established in 1945, with the last committee elections taking place in 1969. Many community members have since passed away, leaving their positions filled by those selected by remaining members, leading to urgent calls for reform.
As the Jewish community in Casablanca continues to thrive, with numerous synagogues and a rich cultural tapestry, the challenges they face are significant. Prominent figures within the community, such as Serge Berdugo, the longtime secretary general of the Council of Jewish Communities of Morocco, are advocating for democratic elections and a modernization of community governance. The king's directive in 2022 to establish a national council that would oversee Jewish affairs was a step in the right direction, but the implementation of this council has been slow, with more than two years passing since the decree.
The call for elections is not just a matter of governance; it represents a desire for greater transparency and inclusivity. Community leaders like Flora Perez and Michael Sicsu are pushing for a new generation of leadership to emerge, as they believe that the current structures are stifling innovation and engagement. Kadoch, who envisions a central office in Casablanca to streamline operations, highlights the need for a unified approach to address the challenges faced by smaller Jewish communities across Morocco.
As Morocco's political landscape shifts, particularly following the recent general elections, the Jewish community is keenly aware of the evolving dynamics. With rising voices advocating for Muslim-Jewish dialogue and ties with Israel, the community remains hopeful that El Mansouri's government will fulfill its promise of democratic elections. The future of Morocco's Jewish community hinges on the ability of its leaders to adapt to the changing times while maintaining the rich heritage that has defined their existence for centuries.
As reported by momentmag.com.
