A recent hike in fuel and basic food prices has sparked anger in Morocco, where protests took place on Sunday over the cost of living and in commemoration of the so-called “February 20” protest movement.
In Rabat, dozens of demonstrators notably denounced the “expensive life” as well as “despotism and corruption”, according to an AFP correspondent.
They also called for “freedom, dignity and social justice” and chanted other slogans launched during the 2011 “February 20 Movement”, Morocco’s version of the Arab Spring which called for reforms, more democracy and less corruption. .
Dozens of people also demonstrated in Casablanca (west) and Tangier (north), according to videos posted on social networks, in response to the call of the “Social Front”, which brings together left-wing opposition parties.
After economic growth is restored in 2021 to a rate of 6.3%, the government of Aziz Akhannouch faces the wrath of the streets due to a rise in prices.
The authorities are also faced with a severe drought which is hitting the kingdom while its economy is very dependent on the agricultural sector, the main contributor to GDP, up to 14%.
On Sunday, clashes took place in a rural market near the city of Kenitra (north) following in particular “unusual speculation at the price level of certain consumer products”, indicated the local authorities, according to the agency of MAP press.
The authorities intervened to restore order and an investigation was opened into these incidents, according to the same source.
