Fatima Zahra Mansouri, the mayor of Marrakech and Minister of National Land Planning, has broken her silence regarding what she described as “leaks and incorrect claims” related to land sales connected to her family. She asserted that the rumors are part of a “malicious smear campaign.”
In a clarifying statement directed to public opinion, Mansouri confirmed that the properties in question originally belong to her late father, Abdul Rahman Mansouri, who purchased them from private individuals in 1978, nearly five decades ago. She added that these lands do not fall under state property or communal lands, as some circulating information suggests.
Mansouri emphasized that the division of the property took place only after her mother’s death in 2023, and it was conducted legally through an agent appointed by the heirs. The sales were carried out transparently and reported to tax authorities.
She also stated that the financial proceeds have been invested within the city of Marrakech in “clear and declared projects,” denying any connection of these lands to the Marrakech municipality, clarifying that they are located within the jurisdiction of the Tessaaltant commune and are subject to a land-use plan approved in 2017, prior to her assumption of the mayoral or ministerial office.
The minister expressed her rejection of what she called “attempts to defame” her and her family, indicating that she has declared all her assets, including these lands, to the Court of Accounts since her election as mayor in 2009 and continues to do so in accordance with the law.
Mansouri stated she welcomes constructive and responsible criticism but will not tolerate attacks on her reputation and integrity. She confirmed that her family has filed a lawsuit against those behind these leaks.
She urged journalists, human rights advocates, and all those interested in public affairs to verify information from reliable sources, in defense of the truth and in respect of professional ethics.
