Morocco: Solidarity protests to take place in cities Oct. 5 and 8

Event

Protests are planned in the capital Rabat and the business capital Casablanca on October 5 and 8, respectively, in solidarity with political detainees from the Hirak protest movement in the Rif region. The protest in Rabat is expected to take place on Thursday, October 5,  starting at 18:00 in front of the Parliament Building. A second rally and protest march is scheduled to take place in Casablanca on Sunday, October 8, at 11:00 starting from Ennaser Square.

Context

This protest movement known as Hirak Al-Shaabi (Popular Movement) started in Al-Hoceima (Rif region) in October 2016. The movement is broadly focused on perceived government corruption, widespread social injustice, and underdevelopment. The most recent wave of demonstrations began when thousands of protesters took to the streets of Al-Hoceima on May 18. Since the end of May, authorities have arrested more than 100 people, including the movement's leader Nasser Zefzafi. In June, thousands of people rallied in Al-Hoceima to demand his release and frustrations have mounted further following the release of a video July 10, which activists claim shows evidence of Zefzafi's mistreatment at the hands of authorities. A Moroccan protester severely injured in protests in Al-Hoceima (Rif region) on July 20 died on August 8, also raising tensions throughout the country. 

Advice

Individuals in Morocco are advised to avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering as a precaution and to remain vigilant at all times.