CNN is reporting that King Mohammed VI of Morocco announced in a televised address today many constitutional reforms that will move the North African country from a monarchy to a parliamentary democracy. The new constitution will shift many powers from the king to a prime minister that will be voted on by Moroccan citizens.
The king said his new role would be that of “king citizen.”
Demonstrations in Morocco in February 2011 led to the king promising constitutional reforms. The February 20th protests followed more violent demonstrations and uprisings in neighboring North African and Middle East countries in what was dubbed the “Arab Spring.”
Mohammed said the primary objective of the new constitution will include “the freedom of the citizens and the separation of power.” It will additionally safeguard human rights, make women’s rights equal to men and give citizens the freedom of expression, added Mohammed, who has ruled the country for 12 years.
The parliament will act as in a legislative capacity with a separate and independent judiciary. Women will be allowed to serve as judges under the proposed system. The king, however, will continue to rule the military.
Islam would still remain the designated state religion, but there would be a guarantee of religious freedom and protection.
The new constitution will be voted on July 1st.
