On September 18th, it was reported that 3,000 people marched throughout the streets of Casablanca, one the country’s largest cities. In the port city of Tangier, 2,000 people protested against the king and the government’s actions. The protestors were fighting for the completion of the democratic movement. Earlier in the summer, protests had moved King Mohammed VI to sign a constitutional reform that gave over half his power to the prime minister and the Parliament. After the signing of the Constitution, nation-wide protests dropped from over 100,000 to 10,000. But the protestors, called the February 20th Movement, say that little has been changed since the signing of the Constitution. It has also been said that the king still has power over the army and the country’s religious affiliation. Although the king promised reform, protestors speculate that it was just a front to prevent future rebellion.
Up until this point, the king has been able to choose his prime minister. In November however, that decision will be governed by the ruling political party. All hopes rest on the parliamentary elections as the majority will be able to choose the prime minister and will govern the country’s future actions.
CB: Paul Ford
Sources:
No comments:
Post a Comment