The young royal’s appointment to a strategic military position marks another major step in preparations for the future leadership of the centuries old Alaouite dynasty…reports Africa News desk
Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan has taken another significant step towards Morocco’s throne after being appointed to a senior military coordination role previously held by his father, Mohammed VI, deepening the young royal’s involvement in the affairs of one of Africa’s wealthiest monarchies.
The Moroccan royal court recently announced that the 23 year old 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 is expected to bring Prince El Hassan closer to intelligence briefings, defence oversight, military modernisation programmes and strategic security coordination within one of Africa’s strongest armed forces.
According to Business Insider Africa, local media reports described the move as another step in preparing the prince to inherit Morocco’s 400 year old Alaouite dynasty, mirroring the path taken by King Mohammed VI, who was appointed to a similar military role by the late King Hassan II in 1985 before ascending the throne.
The development also comes as King Mohammed VI, often regarded by Forbes as Africa’s wealthiest monarch, has scaled back some public engagements following recurring health concerns. Moroccan state media earlier reported that the King required a period of “functional rest” because of lower back pain.
While there is no indication of an immediate succession, the Moroccan palace has steadily expanded Prince El Hassan’s public role as he gradually takes on greater state responsibilities.
Unlike his grandfather Hassan II, who was known for his highly visible political style and strong public speeches, King Mohammed VI has maintained a more reserved public presence. Prince El Hassan is now increasingly shaping his own public identity while representing the monarchy at major national and international events.
In December 2025, the crown prince presided over the opening ceremony of the Africa Cup of Nations hosted by Morocco and inaugurated the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Business Insider Africa reported that Prince El Hassan has also taken on a more visible diplomatic and ceremonial role in recent months, increasingly representing the Moroccan monarchy during meetings with foreign dignitaries, Gulf royals, military officials and international investors.
Earlier this year, he inaugurated the Mohammed VI Tower in Rabat, a 55 storey skyscraper estimated to have cost around 700 million US dollars and regarded as one of Morocco’s most recognisable modern landmarks.
Most recently, the crown prince presided over a luncheon in Rabat marking the 70th anniversary of Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces on the instructions of King Mohammed VI.
The publication noted that the latest appointment is widely viewed as part of the Moroccan palace’s long term preparation for a future royal transition.
