(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
At least three people lost their lives in the Moroccan town of Leqliaa on Wednesday when security forces opened fire during heated protests against government corruption and spending choices, according to Al Jazeera. The clashes erupted as demonstrators vented frustrations over public funds, turning a rally into chaos.
Morocco’s Interior Ministry claimed the deaths happened while officers tried to take weapons from the crowd, but witnesses haven’t backed up that story. Protests like these in Morocco have drawn global attention, especially amid ongoing debates about corruption and economic priorities.
Hundreds more suffered injuries in the violence, and the Moroccan Association for Human Rights reported that police arrested around 1,000 people across the unrest. The demonstrations, fueled by anger over billions poured into preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, have spread to 23 provinces, where protesters damaged hundreds of cars, banks, shops, and public buildings.
Organized by the online activist group GenZ 212, the movement relies heavily on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and even the gaming app Discord to rally young Moroccans. They’re calling out what they see as misplaced priorities: flashy new stadiums under construction while schools and hospitals crumble from neglect.
Chants echoing through the streets captured their message loud and clear—”Stadiums are here, but where are the hospitals?”—highlighting the stark contrast between World Cup investments and everyday needs in Morocco.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch stepped in, saying he’s ready for talks and dialogue to calm the situation and address the protesters’ demands. It’s a sign the government is feeling the pressure from these youth-led Morocco protests.
GenZ 212 quickly distanced itself from the violence in social media posts, insisting they reject any aggression and remain committed to peaceful action. “We have no issue with security forces—our fight is with the government,” the group stated. They announced plans for more peaceful protests on Thursday, framing them as a “civilized and responsible” way to voice concerns about corruption in Morocco and public spending reforms.
As tensions simmer, these events underscore growing youth frustration in Morocco, with eyes on how leaders respond to calls for change ahead of major events like the 2030 FIFA World Cup. ()
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