Moroccan Minister of Religious Affairs Sparks Outrage with “Secular” Claim About Morocco

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | November 26th, 2024 — In a controversial statement that has ignited a storm of debate across Morocco, Ahmed Toufiq, the Minister of Religious Affairs and Islamic Endowments, proclaimed that “Moroccans are secular” during a discussion with French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin during the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Rabat. His comments, which seemingly suggest a shift in the Kingdom’s relationship with its Islamic identity, have triggered widespread concern and confusion.

The Provocative Statement and Its Implications

Minister Toufiq’s remarks are being viewed by many as an attempt to challenge Morocco’s longstanding religious traditions and identity. His claim that “Moroccans are secular” is seen by critics as a striking departure from the Kingdom’s fundamental principles, especially given that the Moroccan constitution enshrines Islam as the state religion and the monarch himself bears the title “Commander of the Faithful” (Amir al-Mu’minin).

The Minister’s statement comes at a time when Morocco is already grappling with tensions over the integration of its diaspora communities, particularly in Europe, where issues surrounding religious identity and the preservation of Islamic traditions are paramount. Many view Toufiq’s comments as an unsettling concession to external pressures, possibly aligning with Western, liberal interpretations of Islam that contrast with the Kingdom’s traditional practices.

A Clear Contradiction with the Constitution

Toufiq’s remarks stand in stark contrast to the principles enshrined in Morocco’s constitution. While the constitution affirms Islam as the state religion, the Minister’s comments suggest a move toward an ideology that does not align with the country’s constitutional commitments. His words appear to represent a breach in the established narrative of Morocco as a deeply Islamic, yet moderate nation.

This contradiction raises critical questions about the future direction of Morocco’s policies and its relationship with Islam. How can the government promote secular ideals when the very foundation of the state is Islamic? And, perhaps more importantly, what message does this send to the Moroccan people, particularly the younger generations, about their national identity?

Translated with adaptation from: 

https://www.echoroukonline.com/%d9%88%d8%b2%d9%8a%d8%b1-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%a3%d9%88%d9%82%d8%a7%d9%81-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d8%ba%d8%b1%d8%a8%d9%8a-%d9%8a%d8%aa%d9%81%d8%a7%d8%ae%d8%b1-%d8%a8%d9%80-%d8%b9%d9%84%d9%85%d8%a7%d9%86%d9%8a

About Dzair Tube Media Group

Dzair Tube has firmly positioned itself as a leading force in Algerian digital journalism, delivering a rich and diverse array of content. Available in Arabic, French, and English, Dzair Tube captivates a broad audience, drawing over half a million daily clicks.

The platform’s excellence was notably recognized with the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This accolade underscores Dzair Tube’s steadfast commitment to the highest journalistic standards.

Dzair Tube’s substantial online footprint includes 350,000 YouTube subscribers, over six million followers across various Facebook pages, and 450,000 Instagram followers. The digital channel serves as a nexus for a wide range of programming, spanning news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a diverse audience.

Boasting cutting-edge studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has attracted a significant viewership with its varied programs. It facilitates interactive discussions with key figures from various sectors, promoting public discourse and engagement. Beyond news, Dzair Tube excels in producing marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership shows.

The print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further attests to the platform’s influence, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.

Awarded the Media Leadership Award by the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the Algerian digital media landscape, maintaining its position of influence and impact. Additionally, Dzair Tube’s prominence in Algeria’s media scene was celebrated at the ninth edition of the “Hilals of the Television” competition, solidifying its status as a media leader.

Stay Connected with Dzair Tube