New Developments: What’s Happening Inside Morocco’s Military Barracks?

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | December 15th, 2024 — The Moroccan Armed Forces have recently experienced heightened scrutiny following the circulation of a statement attributed to the “Free Moroccan Army,” led by Colonel Saadi M’bark. The document calls for significant political changes, including an end to the current monarchy, citing grievances over governance and socio-political issues faced by the Moroccan populace.

This development prompted an emergency meeting chaired by Moulay Rachid, brother to King Mohammed VI, bringing together senior military and intelligence officials to address the situation. Sources indicate that discussions during the meeting were marked by sharp disagreements, particularly between the Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces and Abdellatif Hammouchi, the Director of Domestic Intelligence. The focal point of contention appears to be the intelligence service’s handling of emerging challenges posed by the statement’s dissemination and its resonance within military circles.

The Moroccan government has responded with a series of measures aimed at maintaining order and security. These include the arrest of 13 individuals—among them military personnel and government employees—who have shared the statement on digital platforms. In addition, military leave has been suspended, and heightened security measures have been enforced near sensitive installations, including royal palaces and foreign embassies. Public gatherings in key cities, such as Rabat, have also been restricted.

Reports have emerged suggesting that the leadership of the group attributed to the statement is operating near Bir Lahlou, a region under Polisario Front control. This has led to concerns about potential collaboration between dissenting elements of the Moroccan military and external forces.

Western diplomatic sources have sought clarification from Rabat on these developments, amid growing international interest in the internal dynamics of the Moroccan military. Reports highlight grievances among soldiers related to poor conditions within barracks, as well as increasing public dissatisfaction over human rights, political freedoms, and socio-economic challenges.

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