Belafrej, Ahmed (1908–1990)

Moroccan nationalist and politician, prime minister in 1958. Minister in charge of foreign affairs 1955–58, he became prime minister May–December 1958; his government was brought down because of pressures from progressive factions of his party and the spreading countryside revolts.

A founding member of the Parti de l'Istiqlal in 1944, Balafrej was the second most prominent figure of the Moroccan nationalist movement after Allal al-Fassi. He authored with early nationalist leaders what was the first manifesto calling for the independence of Morocco and the end of the protectorate. His political career ended in 1972 after he served as the king's personal representative 1963–72.