Moroccan Civil Society Prepares for Demonstrations
A Moroccan civil society organization advocating for the nation's territorial claims over the enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla has announced its intention to prepare for potential street protests in the city of Nador. This initiative reflects their concerns regarding perceived attempts by various Spanish political factions to exacerbate tensions between Morocco and Spain. The National Coordination for the Defense of Moroccan National Issues, led by Yahya Yahya, issued a statement indicating that they are closely monitoring the political environment in Spain, particularly in light of the mass crossings into Ceuta observed in late July.
Initially, the organization had opted to refrain from any public demonstrations prior to Morocco's legislative elections, planning to postpone any mobilization until after the electoral process. However, the announcement of an upcoming visit by Spain's King Felipe VI to Ceuta and Melilla has prompted them to reevaluate this stance. In early September, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez revealed that King Felipe VI would embark on this visit in the coming weeks, accompanied by Queen Letizia. Although the exact date has yet to be confirmed, this trip marks the king's first official journey to the two cities since ascending the throne in 2014.
Reactions from Moroccan Activists
The impending royal visit has already sparked reactions among Moroccan activists. Yahya has expressed concerns that such a visit could reignite tensions between Morocco and Spain, recalling the diplomatic fallout that followed former King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia's visit in November 2007. In light of these developments, the coordination has assigned Yahya and member Rachid Ahsain to conduct reconnaissance visits to various locations near Melilla, including the Beni Ensar border crossing and the vicinity of the Spanish Consulate General in Nador, as well as the Barrio Chino and Farhana crossings. These visits aim to lay the groundwork for potential broader and peaceful demonstrations.
The group's planned mobilization seeks to voice opposition against what they describe as ongoing efforts to “blackmail” Morocco, alongside insults directed at Moroccan citizens and provocations of public sentiment. The coordination emphasizes that their activities are integral to civil society's role in defending Morocco’s national interests. In statements made outside the Spanish Consulate General in Nador, Yahya warned that the execution of the planned royal visit could yield negative repercussions for which Madrid should be held accountable. He further asserted that Moroccans are prepared to make significant sacrifices to uphold what he termed the country's territorial unity.
This royal visit occurs amid escalating tensions following the mass influx of migrants into Ceuta at the end of July. Spanish authorities have labeled this incident as a significant border and migration crisis, while Moroccan officials have denied any responsibility for the crossings. The Spanish government has emphasized that the royal visit is a demonstration of state support for Ceuta and Melilla, with Sánchez characterizing it as a manifestation of the Spanish state's unwavering commitment to the two autonomous cities. Ultimately, the Moroccan group’s proposed mobilization remains contingent upon the timing and context of the royal visit, which has yet to be officially scheduled.
As reported by en.hespress.com.
