Morocco on the Brink: Mounting Public Anger and Widespread Protests Threaten the Kingdom

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | February 5th, 2025 — Morocco is witnessing an unprecedented wave of public outrage, as relentless protests erupt across the country in response to worsening living conditions, rampant poverty, and escalating political repression. The kingdom, long plagued by economic inequality and authoritarian governance, now finds itself on the verge of widespread unrest, with mounting discontent threatening to destabilize the monarchy’s iron grip on power.

Over the past weeks, thousands have taken to the streets in various regions, with the city of Jerada emerging as a key flashpoint of resistance. Over the weekend, a massive demonstration shook the city as residents rallied against government neglect, oppressive policies, and the worsening socio-economic crisis. Protesters decried the deliberate marginalization of their communities and condemned authorities for their ruthless exploitation and blatant disregard for citizens’ welfare.

The latest spark for these protests has been the draconian policies surrounding utility bills, which have further exacerbated the suffering of an already impoverished population. Authorities have imposed punitive measures on those unable to pay exorbitant electricity and water fees, withholding essential civil documents such as birth certificates, housing permits, and construction licenses. This act of economic blackmail has further fueled public rage, with citizens accusing the government of extortion and systematic oppression.

Demonstrators, including women, children, and the elderly, chanted slogans such as “This is shameful, this is disgraceful—the rising cost of living is unbearable!” and “How can the poor survive when the price of life has wings?” as they marched through the streets, demanding immediate economic relief and sustainable job opportunities to combat the staggering levels of unemployment in the region.

In addition to the economic catastrophe, Morocco is experiencing an alarming regression in human rights and freedom of expression. The government’s aggressive crackdown on dissenting voices has intensified, with journalists, activists, and political opponents facing systematic harassment, imprisonment, and intimidation.

The Moroccan Association for the Support of Political Prisoners (Hemm) has sounded the alarm over the relentless persecution of journalists, citing the case of Lubna Al-Falah, editor-in-chief of Al-Hayat Al-Youm newspaper, who has been targeted with relentless state-sponsored harassment. Al-Falah, who has vocally supported political detainees and those opposing normalization with Israel, has faced unjust disciplinary actions, threats from the prison administration, and a defamatory smear campaign orchestrated by pro-regime media. Despite a court ruling overturning punitive measures against her, authorities continue their vindictive campaign against her publication.

Similarly, former political prisoner and human rights activist Saida Al-Alami has revealed a disturbing escalation in state intimidation tactics. After announcing her intent to publish memoirs detailing her time behind bars, Al-Alami received direct threats warning her against exposing the regime’s abuses. In a defiant social media post titled “A State or a Mafia?”, she condemned the Moroccan authorities’ relentless intimidation efforts, vowing to escalate the matter to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights if the harassment persists.

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