Morocco: First Reaction from Akhannouch After GenZ Protests

This is the first official statement from the Prime Minister since the outbreak of the "GenZ 212" movement, which has resulted in protests, clashes, and violence in various localities. In his opening address, Akhannouch acknowledged the seriousness of the events that have affected "many cities in the Kingdom" over the past two days. He described a "dangerous turning point" that has "compromised public security and order," noting that the clashes have resulted in "hundreds of injuries among law enforcement" as well as damage to "public and private property." The Prime Minister also expressed sorrow over "the deaths of three individuals," extending his condolences to the families of the victims. He commended "the professional and organized interventions of the various security forces," emphasizing that they continue to fulfill "their constitutional mission to protect security and public order" while ensuring, in his view, "the preservation of individual and collective rights and freedoms." Akhannouch stressed the government's commitment, along with the majority parties, to "respond to the demands expressed by the youth" and to "demonstrate their willingness for dialogue and discussion within institutional and public spaces." He reaffirmed that "the dialogue-based approach is the only way to address the various issues facing the country" and to "accelerate the implementation of public policies that meet social demands," aiming to achieve "the common ambition of all Moroccans." These statements represent the first official reaction from the Prime Minister after several days of unrest. Since the launch of the "GenZ 212" movement, authorities had previously communicated through majority statements and sporadic interventions by ministers. Further developments will follow.