Dangerous Tradition: Ashura Firecrackers Spark Concern in Morocco

In the heart of Morocco, as the Islamic holiday of Ashura approaches, a bittersweet atmosphere permeates the air. While the occasion traditionally commemorates divine intervention and martyrdom, a troubling trend has emerged in recent years, casting a shadow over the celebrations. The streets echo with the sharp cracks and pops of firecrackers, a sound that has become synonymous with both festivity and fear.

Ashura, a day of historical significance in Islam, marks the miraculous rescue of Moses from the Pharaoh and honors the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, grandson of Prophet Muhammad. However, what should be a time of reflection and joy has increasingly become a period of anxiety for many Moroccans, as the use of firecrackers, locally known as "Qanboul," has spiraled into a dangerous tradition.

The allure of these explosive devices has proven irresistible to children and teenagers across the nation. In the days leading up to Ashura, street markets buzz with young buyers eager to get their hands on these hazardous items. The consequences of this trend have been devastating, with lives lost and families shattered.

Just last year, tragedy struck in Settat province near Casablanca, where a 17-year-old lost his life due to the explosion of a mini gas cylinder during Ashura celebrations. This incident is not isolated; children as young as 13 have fallen victim to firecracker-related accidents in recent years.

The ramifications of this perilous practice extend far beyond the immediate risk of injury or death. The constant barrage of explosions creates a cacophony that instills fear and anxiety in the hearts of the ill and elderly. Pregnant women find themselves startled by unexpected blasts, potentially endangering their unborn children. Even motorists are not immune to the chaos, as sudden explosions can lead to traffic accidents.

Bouazza El Kharrati, president of the Fédération Marocaine des Droits des Consommateurs (Moroccan Federation of Consumer Rights), has been at the forefront of efforts to combat this dangerous trend and emphasized the urgent need for stricter regulation and enforcement.

"We are living in a state of terror during this period called Ashura," El Kharrati lamented. "The explosions can startle a pregnant woman and lead to a traffic accident. If we collect a certain number of these firecrackers and detonate them at once, it has the same effect as a bomb."

El Kharrati's concerns extend beyond public safety to national security. He pointed out the potential for these seemingly innocuous firecrackers to be used for more sinister purposes, highlighting the fine line between celebration and catastrophe.

Despite existing legislation prohibiting the unauthorized importation, sale, and use of firecrackers, the products continue to flood the market. El Kharrati called for explicit authorization from local authorities for the importation and sale of firecrackers, insisting that "Anyone selling without this declaration must have their firecrackers seized by the authorities."

The consumer rights activist raised questions about the apparent disregard for public safety and well-being, despite the existence of laws introduced following advocacy efforts by his organization. He called on the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Finance, which oversees customs, to fulfill their responsibilities in ensuring transparency and adherence to the law.

El Kharrati's concerns about how these products enter the Moroccan market in the first place suggest potential deception in the declaration of imported goods or smuggling activities. This raises alarming questions about border security and the effectiveness of customs procedures.

As Ashura approaches, activists and concerned citizens are demanding swift action from authorities. They call for immediate raids on markets and shops selling these dangerous products, prioritizing the safety and well-being of consumers and citizens.

El Kharrati noted that while enforcement efforts were at their peak before the COVID-19 pandemic, recent years have seen a laxity in crackdowns. This relaxation of vigilance has coincided with an increase in firecracker use among children and youth, creating a perfect storm of danger.

The responsibility for change lies not only with the authorities but also with parents and the community at large. Parents are urged to refrain from purchasing firecrackers for their children, recognizing the inherent dangers they pose. However, the onus ultimately rests on the authorities to enforce existing laws and regulations stringently, cracking down on the illegal importation, sale, and use of these explosive devices.

As Morocco grapples with this dangerous tradition, the nation stands at a crossroads. The joyous spirit of Ashura hangs in the balance, overshadowed by the perilous practices that have taken root. It is a stark reminder that traditions, no matter how entrenched, must be examined and, if necessary, modified when they pose a threat to public safety and well-being.

The coming days will reveal whether Morocco can reclaim the true essence of Ashura, transforming it from a time of trepidation to a period of genuine celebration and reflection. The eyes of the nation are now fixed on the authorities, waiting to see if they will rise to the challenge and ensure that future Ashura celebrations are marked by joy and reverence, rather than fear and tragedy.