Biography of Leader Abdelkhalek Torres
Moroccan nationalist leader, pioneer of the national movement in northern Morocco, founder, journalist, playwright and diplomat.
Birth in Tétouan
Abdelkhalek Torres was born in Tétouan into a family of Morisco origin, the seventh and last child of Ahmed Torres (Pasha of Tétouan) and Achoucha Attar, grandson of Mohamed bin Arbi Torres who represented the Sultan at the Algeciras Conference in 1906.
Entry to Al-Ahlia School
He entered Al-Ahlia school where he was quickly noticed for his intelligence and lively mind.
Academic journey
Studies at Al Quaraouiyine University in Fez, then in Cairo at Fouad I University (under professors Taha Hussein and Ahmed Amine), and finally at the Sorbonne in Paris.
Founding of Moroccan Student Association
Creation of the first cultural organization in Morocco after his return from Paris.
Launch of Al Hayat newspaper
First nationalist newspaper in Arabic in the Spanish protectorate zone.
First girls' school
Founding of the first primary school for girls in Morocco.
First modern theater in Morocco
His play "Intissar Al Haq" (Victory of Truth) is considered the first modern theatrical performance in Morocco.
Founding of Maahad Al Horr
Creation of the first modern educational institution that would train the cadres of the national movement.
Creation of the National Reform Party
First organized and structured political party in Morocco, becoming the instrument of national struggle in the northern zone.
Historic Tangier Speech
Passionate speech before King Mohammed V reaffirming Morocco's unity. Trip to Cairo to co-found the Arab Maghreb Liberation Committee with Allal El Fassi.
Tétouan Events
Riots following the decision to exile Torres: 17 dead, 215 wounded, 380 arrested. The N.R.P. was banned.
Unity of Morocco
Signed with Allal El Fassi the merger of the N.R.P. with the Istiqlal Party in Tangier, unifying northern and southern Morocco.
Power transfer and Ambassador to Madrid
Appointed by Mohammed V to oversee the transfer of Spanish administration, then first ambassador of independent Morocco to Madrid.
Ambassador to Cairo
Ambassador to Egypt, maintaining excellent relations with Nasser and raising the Moroccan flag at the Arab League.
Minister of Justice
Appointed Minister of Justice, tasked with unifying the various legislations.
Death
Died in Tangier following a heart attack. Buried at the Sidi Al Mandari cemetery in Tétouan. He left three children: Mohamed, Kenza, and Fama.