Morocco is grappling with a series of socio-economic crises that are causing serious concern to Moroccans, and the silence of Morocco’s Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch becomes more noticeable each day. From the mass illegal migration to deadly floods in Tata, compounded by rising unemployment and skyrocketing prices, citizens are left questioning Morocco’s leadership at a time when decisive action and communication are needed.
One of the most alarming issues of recent weeks was the mass illegal migration attempt on September 15, when hundreds of Moroccans attempted to cross into Europe.
Akhannouch has remained silent. And the silence is deafening. No words of condolence for those lost at sea, no clear plan to address the underlying causes of this exodus — simply nothing.
This mass migration should have sparked a national conversation about job creation, investment in youth programs, and better social services. Instead, it seems to have passed by unnoticed by the top politician tasked with finding the appropriate policies.
Equally troubling is the devastation caused by the recent floods in Tata, where people lost their lives and livelihoods. For the second time in less than two weeks, the region was struck by catastrophic flooding, yet the government’s response has been lacking. With each flood, more homes are destroyed, more families are displaced, and the toll on human life continues to grow.
The people of Tata are not just facing natural disasters; they are also facing governmental neglect. Despite calls for action, there has been little in the way of tangible support from the central government.
Floods in rural areas are not new, but what is new is the indifference that now accompanies them. As water washes away homes and lives, it seems it has also washed away any sense of urgency in Akhannouch’s administration.
Meanwhile, as these crises unfolded, Akhannouch’s party held a large celebration in Agadir, coinciding with the commemoration of the deadly earthquake on September 8, 2023. While thousands of Moroccans are still grappling with the aftermath of that catastrophe, the head of the political party and the government found time to rejoice.
This stark contrast between the somber realities of the people and the festivities of the ruling elite is a disturbing display of disconnect. Agadir may have been filled with lights and laughter, but in the hearts of many, there is anger and confusion about the government’s priorities.
Shockingly, a year after the earthquake, many affected regions have seen little to no substantial recovery. Promises were made, but on the ground, families continue to suffer from inadequate housing, and essential infrastructure remains in dire need of repair. The lack of urgency in addressing these pressing concerns raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to long-term recovery efforts.
At the heart of these issues is an economic crisis that seems to be intensifying. Unemployment is rising steadily, and the cost of living is becoming unbearable for the average Moroccan. Basic goods have seen price hikes that are simply unsustainable, pushing many to the brink of poverty. Food, fuel, housing — everything is more expensive, while wages remain stagnant.
Akhannouch’s government was supposed to usher in economic stability and prosperity. Instead, what we see is an economy in freefall, with no intervention in sight. Morocco’s youth, in particular, are bearing the brunt of this failure, with unemployment rates that make the future seem bleak. Without urgent reform, this economic discontent could lead to widespread unrest.
Rising prices, combined with high unemployment, have left the population in a state of growing frustration and despair.
In times of crisis, leaders’ strength is not measured by how well they celebrate successes, but by how they stand with their people in times of need. Akhannouch’s continued silence in the face of these pressing issues risks undermining not only his political standing for a chance at a second term in the next election, but the very fabric of Moroccan society. If this silence persists, it may be too late to repair the growing divide between the government and the people it was elected to serve.