This piece was reprinted by OpEd News with permission or license. It may not be reproduced in any form without permission or license from the source.
A group called the February 20 Movement for Change initiated protests, attracting around 19,000 Facebook followers. Demonstrations are also planned in other Moroccan cities, including Tangiers, Casablanca, and popular tourist destination Marrakesh.
Officially, Morocco is a constitutional monarchy with an elected parliament, one with no power. In fact, the constitution lets the king, Mohammed VI dissolve it, impose a state of emergency, and be able to make government appointments, including for prime minister.
Bahrainian Protests
On February 21 from Bahrain, Al Jazeera said hundreds of protesters occupied Manama's Pearl Roundabout, including many there all night after another day of demonstrations. Chants included "Get out Hamad," demanding the king, Sheikh Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, step down.
Abdul-Jalil Khalil, a Shia political opposition bloc leader, said protesters were considering the monarchy's call for dialogue after days of violence, deaths and injuries, enraging thousands to press on. After troops and other security forces withdrew, protesters erected barriers, wired a sound system, set up a makeshift medical tent, and deployed lookouts to warn if they returned.
Opposition demands include releasing political prisoners and giving residents a greater role in politics. In exile, Hassan Mashaima, leader of the opposition Haq Movement of Liberties and Democracy told AFP he's returning to Manama even without guarantees for his safety. Nonetheless, he said, "under the current circumstances, I cannot remain outside my country."
Ahead of mass Sunday rallies, a planned general strike was called off, what may still happen depending on developments. Though calmer than before, tensions remain high among many wanting change.
Yemeni Protests Continue
Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9
(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
2
2
1
