Mohamed Chaouki Emerges as Sole Candidate to Lead Morocco’s RNI Party
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Morocco’s National Rally of Independents (RNI) is poised for a leadership transition as mohamed Chaouki has emerged as the only candidate to succeed Aziz Akhannouch as party president.The proclamation, made on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, comes after Akhannouch announced his decision to step down after two consecutive terms, signaling a significant shift for the influential political party ahead of the 2026 legislative elections.
Akhannouch’s Departure and the Succession Process
On January 11, 2026, Aziz Akhannouch, the long-serving president of the RNI, revealed his decision not to pursue another term, citing a period of “in-depth reflection.” This withdrawal has been widely interpreted as the end of an era, with observers noting the strong association between Akhannouch’s persona and the party’s identity. Following the close of the candidacy submission period, the RNI’s political office received only one request: that of Mohamed Chaouki.
“The political office decided to transmit [Chaouki’s] candidacy to the Extraordinary National Congress,” according to a party press release. The candidacy was validated by the political office and will now be put to a vote at the Extraordinary National Congress, scheduled for February 7, 2026, in El Jadida.
Who is Mohamed Chaouki?
Mohamed Chaouki is a rising figure within the RNI, currently serving as a deputy for the Boulemane constituency and as president of the National Rally of Independents Group in the House of Representatives. He follows in his father’s footsteps, having succeeded him in the elected position. Chaouki’s background is rooted in business management and financial analysis, having earned his degree from Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane.
Professionally, he holds the positions of Chairman and CEO of both “AD capital” and “AD Capital Holding.” the latter was acquired from an Emirati shareholder in 2022, demonstrating his success in the financial sector.
Preparations for the Extraordinary National Congress
The upcoming Extraordinary National Congress is the culmination of meticulous planning. Rachid Talbi Alami, president of the Preparatory Commission for the Congress, presented a detailed report to the political bureau, highlighting “sustained commitment, broad mobilization and a spirit of serious and responsible work.” His presentation focused on the various stages of readiness,aiming to ensure a smooth and productive
why did this happen? Aziz Akhannouch voluntarily stepped down after serving two terms as president of the RNI,citing a desire for “in-depth reflection.” This created a vacancy that prompted a succession process. Who is involved? The key players are Aziz Akhannouch (outgoing president), Mohamed Chaouki (sole candidate), and the members of the RNI’s political office and the Extraordinary national Congress who will vote on Chaouki’s confirmation. What is the outcome? Mohamed Chaouki emerged as the sole candidate to replace Akhannouch.His confirmation is expected at the Extraordinary National Congress on February 7, 2026.How did it unfold? Akhannouch announced his departure, the RNI opened a candidacy period, only Chaouki applied, his candidacy was validated by the political office, and it will now be presented for a vote at the congress. The process has been described as transparent and adhering to party guidelines.
