By Narjis Oughla, MoroccoTomorrow Organizing Committee Member
Views Expressed in MoroccoTomorrow opinion columns are the views of the writer and not of MoroccoTomorrow
In the wake of this Arab Spring, the King and the people of Morocco are trying to set an example for the region in the eyes of the whole world. After the violent protests that took place in Tunisia and Egypt, the people of Morocco decided to speak up in a peaceful way. The February 20th movement demanded an imminent change and a constitutional monarchy because of many issues that Moroccans have been suffering from. The King, on the other side, responded by appointing a commission of experts to work on a new constitution. And at last, on June 17, his majesty Mohammed VI announced the new constitution to the country. Yes, until this day Morocco is still considered to be setting a strong example for other regimes.
The whole world is indeed watching how Moroccans will respond to the rise of protests in the Arab countries and how the government will handle it. Morocco is actually facing many issues and problems from the imperfect education system to the high unemployment rates. Its GDP per capita is, unfortunately, half the Tunisian and considerably lower than that of Egypt. But the vast difference between Morocco and the other countries that saw violence in the streets is that the majority of Moroccans love and trust their King. In that alone, we can see how Morocco was an exception.
However, today the people of Morocco have a responsibility toward their country as much as the government and the King have. On one hand, both the government and his Majesty need to be more alert to what the people want to avoid pushing some of them to the violence in the streets. Then they really need, not only to follow the new constitution, but, keep seeking ways to make Morocco a corruption free and transparent country to its people and the world.
On the other hand, we, as citizens, need to minimize any chances of violence when we speak up. Let’s not forget that we’re on our way to enter the Gulf Cooperation Council that will open other chances for all of us and for our country to develop drastically. Moreover, the tourism is one of our largest industries. Thus, instability will cause a dramatic decline in those revenues leaving us with a colossal loss in our budget and our opportunities. Do we really want that?
Moreover, all of the Moroccans need to join hands in voting for the new constitution. Your votes can be different and will be, but we have to do it. Boycotting it won’t get the message out there. If you disagree with it for any reason, say it loud and clear on July 1st. Voting by a clear NO in the referendum will give you a voice and count way more than not voting at all.
Let’s do this for our country and let’s show the world that, Yes, we are a dedicated King, a responsible government, and devoted citizens who will achieve the change they want in the most peaceful and educated manner. Let’s keep in mind, as Gandhi stated,that “Victory attained by violence is tantamount to a defeat, for it is momentary.”
