Morocco Cracks Down on Anti-Government Protests; Dozens Arrested
According to the English section of webangah News Agency, citing mehr News Agency and Reuters, dozens were detained during widespread anti-government demonstrations in various Moroccan cities. The protests focused on grievances regarding the country’s healthcare and education systems.
The demonstrations are organized online by an anonymous group called “genz 212” through social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and discord. Moroccan government and judicial officials have yet to comment on the events or arrests.
Despite security authorities denying permits for gatherings in cities including Rabat (the capital), casablanca, Agadir, Tangier, and Oujda, young protesters took to the streets regardless. A strong security presence led to dozens being arrested.
Protesters have questioned Morocco’s government priorities, accusing officials of neglecting health and education sectors while allocating funds toward building stadiums and hosting international sporting events.
Media reports highlight that this North African country faces escalating crises in public health and education but is together constructing stadiums for its bid to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Demonstrators chanted slogans such as “Stadiums are here-but where are the hospitals?”
Eyewitnesses told Reuters that plainclothes officers detained young protesters attempting to chant slogans or speak with reporters.
This fresh wave of mass protests began after youth in Agadir rallied against poor hospital conditions-an issue which quickly spread nationwide.
Demonstrators condemned inadequate medical services, staff shortages in hospitals and clinics, and a lack of medical resources throughout Morocco during these gatherings.
The Moroccan National Statistics Agency reports an overall unemployment rate at 12.8%, with youth unemployment reaching 35.8%, including 19% university graduates among them.
