Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan has taken another major step toward Morocco’s throne after being appointed to a senior military coordination role once held by his father, Mohammed VI, deepening the young royal’s involvement in the affairs of one of Africa’s wealthiest monarchies.
The transition became more visible earlier this month after the Moroccan royal court announced that the prince had been appointed “coordinator of the offices and services of the general staff of the Royal Armed Forces,” a strategic role within Morocco’s military structure.
The appointment places Prince El Hassan, who turned 23 last week, closer to intelligence briefings, defence oversight, military modernisation programmes, and strategic security coordination within one of Africa’s strongest armed forces.
Local media reports described the appointment as another step in preparing the prince to inherit the 400 year old Alaouite dynasty, mirroring the path taken by his father, Mohammed VI, who was appointed to a similar military role by the late King Hassan II in 1985 before ascending the throne.
It also comes at a time when King Mohammed VI, often regarded by Forbes as Africa’s wealthiest monarch, has reduced some public engagements following recurring health concerns, including lower back pain that earlier this year required a period of “functional rest,” according to Moroccan state media.
