Morocco in turmoil: Minister fired within hours over exposure of mental health issues

Minister Khayir was fired by the King of Morocco within 48 hours of her appointment, after the leak of an unverified 2004 medical document suggesting a psychological history. The move sparked a public debate on privacy and background checks.

Morocco is in turmoil: Minister Khayir was fired within 48 hours of her appointment after the leak of an old medical document. With the formation of Morocco's new government led by Fatima El Mansouri, several women were appointed to ministerial positions. Minister Khayir (51), from the Istiqlal Party, was appointed to head the Ministry of Vocational Training and Rehabilitation. Shortly after her swearing-in, a document from 2004 attributed to a psychiatrist was leaked on social media, claiming she had faced a mental health crisis. At the same time, a report was circulated about another document accusing her of fraud. The documents were not officially verified. The Prime Minister approached King Mohammed VI, who announced her dismissal without detailing the reasons. The affair sparked a debate on background checks for candidates and the privacy of medical information. Government spokesperson Samir Belfiqia justified the decision as a 'commitment to take responsibility.'