Public Protests Escalate in Morocco; Government Forced to Enter Talks
According to the English section of webangah News Agency, citing Mehr News Agency via Al Mayadeen, the “Generation Z 212 Youth Movement” is organizing a wave of protests across Moroccan cities demanding the government’s resignation and improvements in health and education services.
The cities of Rabat,Casablanca,Agadir,and Marrakech have witnessed a sixth consecutive night of protests led by the Generation Z 212 Youth Movement. The demonstrations stem from deteriorating social conditions-especially in healthcare and education-and include calls for the current government’s dismissal.
In Rabat, dozens gathered in the upscale Agdal district, waving national flags and chanting slogans for social justice.
Similar protests took place in other cities where hundreds participated. Demonstrators emphasized their commitment to peaceful action while demanding Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch’s removal over failures in providing essential services.
The Generation Z 212 movement reiterated its demands for reforms in education and healthcare through an official statement. It reaffirmed its dedication to nonviolence and distanced itself from any acts of violence or rioting.
Tensions worsened after security forces fatally shot three protesters in southern Morocco.
The Moroccan Ministry of Interior stated that unrest has escalated beyond peaceful protest into armed attacks targeting security installations and public facilities.
Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch expressed regret over the deaths-the first remarks since protests began-and affirmed his government’s willingness to hold talks with demonstrators.
Social Affairs Minister Abdeljabbar Rachidi also announced that authorities are ready to ”transfer discussions from virtual spaces into formal institutions.”
Despite Health Minister Amin Tehrawi acknowledging inadequate health infrastructure nationwide-notably in some provinces-the Algerian government recently declared major investments preparing for hosting the 2030 World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations 2025. This growth has fueled protesters’ anger.
Meanwhile, human rights organizations report over 400 arrests linked to recent demonstrations nationwide.
