Former Judge and Refugee in France Urges Free Officers of the Moroccan Army to Liberate Moroccans from the Makhzen
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In the midst of opulence and extravagance at the royal palace, a stark contrast unfolds across Morocco, where millions of people struggle to make ends meet and live in poverty. King Mohammed VI, known for his luxurious lifestyle, faces growing criticism as a significant portion of the population faces economic challenges, limited opportunities, and a lack of basic services. Former judge and refugee in France, Mohamed Kandil, calls on the Free Officers of the Moroccan army to address these disparities and liberate Moroccans from the clutches of the Makhzen.
Morocco’s Persistent Poverty
Morocco’s battle against poverty remains an ongoing struggle, with many citizens living below the poverty line. Economic disparities, regional inequalities, and limited employment opportunities are some of the factors contributing to this pervasive issue. As poverty continues to grip the nation, access to education, healthcare, and social services are compromised, leaving vulnerable communities, especially children, in dire circumstances.
Disturbingly, a recent World Bank report highlights Morocco’s position as one of the most poverty-stricken countries in the Middle East and North Africa region. Oxfam’s reports on global inequalities corroborate these findings, with the organization designating Morocco as the most unequal country in North Africa and one of the most unequal on the planet.
The ever-widening gap between the wealthy and the impoverished is evident, with only 10% of the population owning more than 63% of the total wealth, while 50% own less than 5%. Rural areas, with vulnerable agricultural communities, bear the brunt of poverty, while urban centers, burdened by high population density and rapid urbanization, also suffer from income disparities and inadequate living conditions.
Youth unemployment poses another critical challenge, with gender inequality further compounding the problem. Women, in particular, face unique challenges and a higher poverty rate compared to their male counterparts, highlighting the necessity for gender-responsive policies.
Statistics Reveal the Harsh Reality
According to the World Bank, over 4 million people in Morocco currently live in poverty. Shockingly, the United Nations Development Programme reports that 61% of Moroccans are at risk of falling into poverty due to a lack of social protection. Furthermore, youth unemployment rates reach an alarming 25%, with women and rural areas bearing the brunt of the crisis.
Contrasting Lifestyles: A King and His People
While the royal palace embodies luxury and extravagance, a significant portion of Moroccan citizens face daily hardships and economic challenges. The stark contrast between the king’s opulent lifestyle and the harsh reality experienced by the population has ignited public outcry and sparked debates about wealth distribution and social inequality.
Critics argue that the concentration of wealth in the hands of the elite, including the royal family, perpetuates the gap between the rich and the poor. As the king and his family revel in luxurious palaces, private jets, and expensive cars, a large portion of the population struggles to meet even their most basic needs.
The Call for Change
Mohamed Kandil, a former judge and now a refugee in France, has taken a bold step by urging the Free Officers of the Moroccan army to address the glaring inequality and liberate Moroccans from the corrupt regime. Drawing inspiration from history, Kandil calls for the Free Officers to follow the example set during the French Revolution and hold those in power accountable.
It is undeniable that Morocco’s poverty crisis requires immediate attention and comprehensive strategies to alleviate the hardships faced by its citizens. A call for transparency, social justice, and equitable distribution of resources has never been more urgent. The nation must strive for a future where the wealth and prosperity of the country are shared by all its people, and where no one is left behind.
