Richest Politicians in Morocco
Morocco, one of North Africa’s most dynamic economies, has a long history of blending politics with wealth. Many of the country’s leading politicians are not only powerful decision-makers but also highly successful businesspeople. Their financial influence extends beyond government offices into banking, agriculture, real estate, and international trade. Understanding the richest politicians in Morocco and their net worth provides a deeper look into how politics and economics are closely connected in the kingdom.
In this article, we will explore the wealthiest politicians in Morocco, their business backgrounds, the sources of their fortunes, and how their financial power shapes both governance and society.
The Intersection of Politics and Wealth in Morocco
In Morocco, politics and business often overlap. Many politicians come from wealthy families or build their fortunes through industries such as agriculture, banking, real estate, and trade before transitioning into political life. This wealth not only funds their political careers but also increases their influence in both local and international affairs.
Unlike in some countries where politicians rely solely on government salaries, Moroccan political elites often have independent business ventures that contribute significantly to their net worth.
Richest Politicians in Morocco and Their Net Worth
Below is a detailed list of some of the wealthiest politicians in Morocco, along with estimates of their net worth and business activities.
1. Aziz Akhannouch – Net Worth: $2 Billion to $2.5 Billion
Aziz Akhannouch is Morocco’s current Prime Minister and leader of the National Rally of Independents (RNI). Beyond politics, he is one of the country’s most successful businessmen.
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Source of Wealth: Akhannouch is the CEO and majority shareholder of Akwa Group, a conglomerate with investments in petroleum, chemicals, gas, and other industries.
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Political Influence: As Prime Minister, his decisions carry significant weight in shaping Morocco’s economic policies.
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Lifestyle: He is regarded as Morocco’s richest politician, with a fortune exceeding $2 billion.
Akhannouch’s net worth comes primarily from his business empire rather than politics, making him one of the wealthiest political figures in Africa.
2. Salaheddine Mezouar – Net Worth: $50 Million to $70 Million
Salaheddine Mezouar is a seasoned Moroccan politician and businessman. He served as the Minister of Foreign Affairsand previously held roles in finance and industry.
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Source of Wealth: Mezouar has had a long career in both the private and public sectors, including leadership roles in Morocco’s textile industry and trade organizations.
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Business Engagements: He has been associated with major business councils, strengthening his financial portfolio.
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Political Role: Mezouar was also president of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), which represents Morocco’s largest businesses.
His business connections have significantly increased his wealth, making him one of Morocco’s richest political figures.
3. Driss Jettou – Net Worth: $40 Million to $60 Million
Driss Jettou is a former Prime Minister of Morocco (2002–2007) and an influential figure in Moroccan politics.
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Source of Wealth: Before politics, Jettou was a successful businessman in the leather industry. He later expanded into other sectors, including trade and investments.
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Political Career: As Prime Minister, he helped oversee significant reforms in Morocco’s economy.
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Wealth: His net worth is estimated between $40 million and $60 million, making him one of the wealthiest former heads of government in the country.
4. Chakib Benmoussa – Net Worth: $20 Million to $30 Million
Chakib Benmoussa is Morocco’s current Minister of National Education and a highly respected technocrat.
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Source of Wealth: His financial strength comes from both his long career in public administration and private ventures. He has been linked with engineering projects and investments in Morocco’s infrastructure development.
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Influence: Benmoussa also served as Morocco’s ambassador to France, strengthening his international profile.
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Net Worth: His estimated wealth ranges from $20 million to $30 million.
5. Abbas El Fassi – Net Worth: $15 Million to $25 Million
Abbas El Fassi served as Morocco’s Prime Minister between 2007 and 2011. He is also a longtime leader within the Istiqlal Party.
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Source of Wealth: El Fassi comes from a family with deep political and economic roots in Morocco. His personal fortune stems from both politics and family assets.
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Political Role: His time in government coincided with significant modernization projects in Morocco.
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Net Worth: Estimated between $15 million and $25 million.
6. Saadeddine Othmani – Net Worth: $10 Million to $15 Million
Saadeddine Othmani is a former Prime Minister of Morocco (2017–2021) and a leader of the Justice and Development Party (PJD).
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Source of Wealth: Unlike some of Morocco’s wealthiest politicians, Othmani’s net worth comes primarily from his medical profession (psychiatry), political service, and modest investments.
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Wealth Estimate: His fortune is estimated at $10 million to $15 million, lower than other Moroccan leaders but still significant.
7. Taieb Fassi-Fihri – Net Worth: $8 Million to $12 Million
Taieb Fassi-Fihri, Morocco’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs, has played an important role in shaping Morocco’s diplomacy.
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Source of Wealth: He comes from a prominent family and has business investments in addition to his long career in politics.
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Net Worth: Estimated at $8 million to $12 million.
Comparing Moroccan Politicians’ Wealth
While many Moroccan politicians have comfortable fortunes, Aziz Akhannouch stands out as by far the richest politician in Morocco, with a net worth in the billions. Others, such as Salaheddine Mezouar and Driss Jettou, have amassed tens of millions through a mix of political influence and business ventures.
This reflects the broader trend in Morocco, where political influence and private enterprise often go hand in hand.
How Politicians in Morocco Build Their Wealth
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Family Businesses – Many Moroccan politicians inherit wealth from established family enterprises in agriculture, trade, and real estate.
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Private Sector Ventures – Politicians often diversify into oil, gas, finance, and property development.
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Political Connections – Holding high-ranking positions provides access to opportunities that can boost their wealth indirectly.
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International Engagements – Serving as ambassadors or in foreign affairs roles can open doors to global business deals.
Lifestyle of Morocco’s Wealthiest Politicians
The richest politicians in Morocco often maintain a luxurious but discreet lifestyle. Unlike in some countries where wealth is openly displayed, Moroccan elites typically emphasize tradition and modesty, even when their fortunes are vast. Their wealth is more visible in their investments, philanthropic contributions, and business empires than in lavish personal spending.
The Impact of Wealth on Moroccan Politics
Wealthy politicians in Morocco wield significant influence not only in governance but also in shaping the nation’s economy. Their financial strength allows them to:
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Fund political campaigns effectively.
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Support social programs and charitable causes.
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Build strong networks with international investors.
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Shape economic policy in ways that benefit both the country and their business interests.
Conclusion
The richest politicians in Morocco and their net worth reflect how politics and business are deeply interconnected in the country. While Aziz Akhannouch dominates the list with a multibillion-dollar fortune, other figures like Salaheddine Mezouar, Driss Jettou, and Chakib Benmoussa also rank among Morocco’s wealthiest leaders.
Their wealth comes from diverse sources—ranging from petroleum and trade to real estate and consultancy—but one theme remains clear: in Morocco, political influence and economic power often go hand in hand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the richest politician in Morocco?
Aziz Akhannouch is the richest politician in Morocco, with an estimated net worth of $2 billion to $2.5 billion.
2. How do Moroccan politicians make their money?
They earn wealth from family businesses, private investments, real estate, and large corporations, often alongside their political roles.
3. What is Salaheddine Mezouar’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated between $50 million and $70 million.
4. Was Driss Jettou wealthy before politics?
Yes, Jettou was a successful businessman in the leather industry before becoming Prime Minister.
5. Does politics in Morocco pay high salaries?
Political salaries are respectable but not the main source of wealth; most fortunes come from business ventures.
6. What industries make Moroccan politicians wealthy?
Key industries include oil, gas, real estate, agriculture, textiles, and finance.
7. Is Saadeddine Othmani among the richest?
No, compared to others, his net worth is lower, estimated at $10 million to $15 million.
8. Do Moroccan politicians invest abroad?
Yes, many diversify their wealth through international investments and business partnerships.
9. How does wealth affect Moroccan politics?
Wealthy politicians often have greater influence, funding capacity, and international networks that boost their political power.
10. Are Moroccan politicians involved in philanthropy?
Yes, many contribute to social causes, education, and development programs as part of their legacy.