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Motion of censure emerges as key solution to Morocco’s government crisis
Political parties in Morocco have a constitutional pathway to address the nationwide protests and restore public confidence: a motion of censure to withdraw confidence from the current government. With public outrage intensifying, particularly among Generation Z demonstrators, the demand for Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch’s resignation has grown louder, reflecting long-standing concerns over alleged conflicts of interest, illicit enrichment, and misuse of public funds.
An aloof and disconnected government
Since taking office, Prime Minister Akhannouch has been perceived as indifferent to public concerns, prioritizing personal interests over national service. The government’s disconnect was highlighted during a recent Medi1 TV interview, when spokesperson Mustapha Baitas responded to questions about the protests with arrogance and dismissal, denying that demonstrators had called for the government’s resignation. Such behavior has reinforced perceptions of a government isolated from the everyday struggles of Moroccans, particularly the youth and low-income households.
The constitutional option
While calls have emerged for King Mohammed VI to dismiss the government, Article 96 of the Moroccan Constitution outlines strict procedural steps for such an action, including consultation with the Constitutional Court and notifications to parliamentary leaders. However, relying on royal intervention risks creating expectations that future governments may be bypassed whenever public dissatisfaction arises, potentially undermining democratic processes.
The motion of censure provides an alternative solution. Under Article 76, Moroccan Parliament can submit a motion requiring at least one-quarter of the House of Representatives to support it for debate, and an absolute majority of 198 votes to pass. With opposition and certain coalition parties potentially aligned, this legal mechanism offers a viable path to remove a government that has failed its citizens.
A scandal-plagued administration
The current government has been associated with several scandals, including a 13-billion-dirham misallocation intended for meat imports, which disproportionately benefited wealthy livestock farmers. Questions also remain over the awarding of a desalination plant project in Casablanca-Settat and the ongoing rise of fuel prices despite falling global oil costs. These controversies have intensified public frustration and underscored the need for decisive political action.
The opposition’s critical moment
Key opposition figures, including Nabil Benabdallah of the Party of Progress and Socialism and Abdelilah Benkirane of the Justice and Development Party, face a historic opportunity to demonstrate leadership and restore trust in Morocco’s political institutions. Similarly, Nizar Baraka of the Istiqlal Party is called upon to distance his party from the current government to preserve its legacy and integrity.
Morocco has achieved significant macroeconomic progress despite corruption challenges, including GDP growth and infrastructure expansion. The current protests, while disruptive, represent a strategic opportunity for political elites to remove corrupt and obstructive figures, reinforcing Morocco’s path toward the development envisioned by its monarch and people. The responsibility now lies with opposition and coalition parties to act decisively.
