When a Moroccan Media Outlet Misgenders King Mohammed VI: Blaming Algeria?
BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS- Since last Sunday, Moroccan media outlets have been dominated by discussions surrounding a serious error committed by “Médi1” channel, which many have deemed a grave misstep and an affront to King Mohammed VI. Although the channel is Moroccan, the blame is once again directed towards Algeria, as has often been the case in similar situations.
The story unfolds with the airing of a news segment on Sunday, during which, instead of referring to Mohammed VI as “Commander of the Faithful” (a title traditionally attributed to male rulers), the screen displayed the term “Commanderess of the Faithful”.
This single phrase ignited a firestorm of criticism against the channel, with accusations of disrespect towards the king and his policies. Despite being an internal Moroccan matter, the blame was swiftly shifted towards Algeria, primarily due to the nationality of the individual responsible for the news section within the channel, who happens to be Algerian.
Critics argue that appointing an Algerian to such a sensitive position within a Moroccan media outlet raises concerns about potential political agendas. They speculate about the possibility of the individual exploiting their position to promote Algerian political agendas within Morocco.
This incident served as a catalyst for renewed attacks against Algerians working in Moroccan media. Previously, former Algerian journalist at Algerian television Hicham Tabdjoune, who currently holds the position of editor-in-chief at “Médi1”, faced significant backlash and accusations of assaulting a Moroccan journalist after an image was broadcasted without his consent.
The intensity of the campaign against Algerian journalists at “Médi1” has increased, particularly since the channel transitioned fully to the Moroccan National Company of Radio and Television ownership. This shift has resulted in deliberate smear campaigns aimed at pressuring Algerians to leave the channel or forcing the management to dismiss them.
About Dzair Tube Media Group
Dzair Tube has firmly established itself as a prominent player among Algerian digital news sites, offering a diverse and enriching content experience. The platform, available in Arabic, French, and English editions, captures the attention of a wide-ranging audience, amassing over half a million daily clicks.
A testament to its commitment to excellence, Dzair Tube received the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This recognition underscores the platform’s unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism.
With a significant online presence, Dzair Tube boasts 350,000 subscribers on YouTube, over five million followers on various Facebook pages, and 450,000 subscribers on Instagram. Its digital channel has become a hub for diverse programming, covering news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a broad spectrum of audience preferences.
Equipped with state-of-the-art studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has garnered substantial viewership for its varied programs. Hosting interactive discussions with influential figures across different domains, the platform actively fosters public discourse and engagement. Beyond news coverage, Dzair Tube extends its commitment to the production of marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership programs.
The success of the print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further highlights the platform’s impact, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.
Honored with the Media Leadership Award from the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the landscape of Algerian digital news, maintaining a position of influence and impact in the media industry.
