Morocco’s king addresses parliament amid mounting tensions

King Mohammed VI urges lawmakers to act with urgency as youth-led protests highlight deep frustrations over inequality, corruption, and public services.

His Majesty Mohammed VI of Morocco delivered a closely watched address to Parliament of Morocco on Friday, marking the start of the final legislative year. Flanked by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan and Prince Moulay Rachid, the monarch called on lawmakers to act with “seriousness and responsibility” to push through pending legislation and accelerate national projects.

The speech, which centered on economic inclusion and governance, came at a critical moment for Morocco just hours after mass protests swept major cities. Development and Equity at the Heart of the Speech

The King reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to its new development model, which focuses on territorial equity, social justice, and inclusive economic growth. He emphasized targeted investment in marginalized areas such as mountainous regions, oases, and rural communities.

“Development must be shared by all Moroccans,” he stressed, urging Parliament, political parties, local officials, and the media to collaborate to both explain government policies and safeguard citizens’ rights.

Mounting Pressure from the Streets

Even as the King spoke, the nation remained on edge following overnight youth-led demonstrations in Rabat, Casablanca, and Tangier. Protesters voiced deep frustration over perceived government corruption, unemployment, and underfunded health and education systems.

Chants calling for “real change” and “accountability” echoed through the streets as demonstrators demanded a fairer distribution of national resources.

Public Anger Over Spending Priorities

One of the most common complaints raised by protesters is the government’s spending priorities. Critics accuse the state of allocating substantial funds to infrastructure for the upcoming 2030 FIFA World Cup while basic services like healthcare and education continue to lag.

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Many see the protests as a sign that Morocco’s young population is growing impatient with promises of reform that have yet to translate into visible improvements in daily life.

Strategic Timing of the Address

The timing of the royal address was no accident. Organizers of the protests paused their demonstrations ahead of the King’s speech, signaling their hope that it would respond directly to their grievances.

While some viewed the speech as a sign that the monarchy is aware of the public mood, others remain skeptical, pointing to previous reform pledges that fell short of meaningful change.

A Call for National Cohesion

King Mohammed VI underscored the need for unity, reminding lawmakers that safeguarding citizens’ trust requires concrete action, not just speeches. He urged Parliament to pass pending bills and implement development plans quickly, warning against complacency.

“All national actors must shoulder their responsibilities,” he said, highlighting that social cohesion and stability depend on equitable progress.

Uncertain Path Forward

Moroccans now wait to see whether the government will follow through on the King’s call for action. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the address will usher in meaningful reform or deepen frustration on the streets.

For many, this moment represents a potential turning point: either the start of serious policy change or another missed opportunity in the country’s long struggle for social justice and good governance.

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