Moroccan Dissident Officer Sheds Light on Desertion, Escape Within Moroccan Army
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- The shocking revelations made by Issou Abdelilah raise serious concerns about Morocco’s compliance with its international obligations. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantee fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to a fair trial, protection from torture, and freedom from discrimination. The Moroccan government must be held accountable for the grave violations committed within its military, and the international community must demand a thorough investigation into these allegations.
Desertion as a Last Resort
The decision of disillusioned soldiers to desert their posts and seek refuge in Europe reflects the desperation they feel in the face of systemic corruption and human rights abuses. These soldiers, who joined the army with a sense of duty and patriotism, found themselves trapped in an institution that disregards justice and perpetuates injustice. Their choice to abandon their military careers is a powerful message to the Moroccan government that urgent reforms are needed to restore integrity, professionalism, and respect for human rights within the armed forces.
According to Issou Abdelilah, corruption permeates every level of the Moroccan army. Entry into the army requires individuals to pay a fee, and promotions and advancements within the ranks are also influenced by monetary transactions. This pay-to-play system creates an environment where positions and opportunities are bought and sold, undermining meritocracy and professionalism. The situation worsens in the southern regions, where officers profit from stealing supplies meant for soldiers, exacerbating the already challenging conditions faced by those serving in the army.
Discrimination and Injustice
Issou Abdelilah’s revelations highlight a clear bias in the Moroccan army’s system of justice. He describes instances where punishment is selectively meted out, protecting corrupt officials while penalizing those who refuse to participate in illicit activities. When Issou Abdelilah objected to signing documents related to the embezzlement of army supplies, he faced retaliation and found himself marginalized within the hierarchy. Attempts to seek a meeting with higher-ranking officials were met with rejection, leaving him without recourse.
Disturbing Orders and Atrocities
Issou Abdelilah’s testimony goes beyond exposing corruption and reveals shocking orders and atrocities committed within the Moroccan army. He recounts being instructed to bomb areas where Sahrawis brought their camels to graze, an act that would cause harm to innocent lives. However, Essou chose to warn the Sahrawis instead, displaying an ethical commitment to save lives. He further exposes cases of mass rape of women within the bathrooms of El-Ayoun and Smara, revealing deeply disturbing acts that are now perpetrated by the police rather than the army.
Tragedies and Injustice Against Sahrawis
Issou’s account portrays a grim reality of tragedies and injustice inflicted upon the Sahrawi population. He witnessed firsthand the torture, intimidation, and human rights abuses perpetrated against Sahrawis, including the intentional breaking of bones in young Sahrawi children who peacefully protested for their rights. Those within the army who refuse to suppress Sahrawi civilians face imprisonment or expulsion. The Moroccan army, instead of protecting and serving the people, becomes an oppressor, trampling upon the rights and dignity of the marginalized Sahrawi population.
