Politics

Morocco commemorates King Hassan II, 26 years after his passing

Wednesday 23 July 2025 - 15:05

Twenty-six years after his death on July 23, 1999, the memory of the late HM King Hassan II continues to resonate deeply within Morocco’s collective consciousness. More than a monarch, he was a strategist, a nation builder, and a dominant figure whose influence shaped the modern identity of the Kingdom.

Born in 1929, Hassan II ascended the throne in 1961, following the death of his father, HM King Mohammed V. His 38-year reign was marked by numerous challenges: attempted coups, constitutional reforms, social unrest, and the recovery of the Sahara in 1975. Despite political turbulence, he succeeded in strengthening the state and asserting Morocco’s presence on the international stage.

Known for his refined intellect and political finesse, Hassan II was often referred to as a "man of balance." His rule combined monarchical authority with diplomatic agility, earning him a unique stature in both Arab and African spheres. A passionate scholar of law and philosophy, his eloquent speeches, in both Arabic and French, reflected his intellectual depth and political pedagogy.

While his leadership was characterized by centralized control, Hassan II maintained a distinctive connection with his people, especially during critical moments such as the Green March or the construction of key infrastructure like the Al Massira Dam. These initiatives remain powerful symbols of national unity.

Each year, on July 23, Moroccans pay tribute through official ceremonies, televised retrospectives, prayers, and visits to his mausoleum in Rabat—a sacred site for citizens and international guests alike.

HM King Mohammed VI, his son and successor, often references his father’s legacy, upholding continuity while modernizing governance. Hassan II’s strategic vision still informs key policies, particularly on the Sahara issue and Morocco’s diplomatic direction.

Despite ongoing debates about his era—praised by some as a time of national pride, and criticized by others for political repression—Hassan II remains a towering figure in Moroccan history. As the country advances under HM King Mohammed VI’s leadership, the late sovereign’s legacy endures as both a guidepost and a source of national identity.