Urgent Appeal for Animal Rights in Marrakech
An online petition has gained significant traction, urging the municipal authorities in Marrakech to terminate the exploitation of animals for tourist entertainment in the iconic Jemaa El Fna square and other locations throughout the city. The focus of this initiative is particularly on the treatment of snakes, Barbary macaques, and carriage horses, which have become symbols of concern for animal welfare advocates.
Launched on the French platform MyPetition.org, this petition has already amassed an impressive 17,751 signatures as of August 10. It is addressed to both the Marrakech City Council and local authorities, highlighting severe allegations regarding the inhumane conditions faced by these animals. According to the petition's organizers, snakes are often left exposed to extreme heat without access to water or shade, while Barbary macaques are reportedly tethered by the neck and subjected to constant handling for the sake of tourist photographs.
Furthermore, the petition brings to light the distressing situation of carriage horses, which are said to be forced to work under the harsh sun without adequate rest or care. Many of these animals exhibit visible signs of fatigue or injury, yet continue to be exploited for commercial gain. The signatories of the petition are calling for a comprehensive ban on the display and exploitation of snakes and monkeys in Jemaa El Fna, advocating for their removal to proper shelters or, wherever feasible, their return to their natural habitats.
In addition to the immediate ban, the petition underscores the necessity for regular veterinary examinations for carriage horses, mandatory resting periods for those that are exhausted or injured, and the revocation of licenses from owners found guilty of mistreating their animals. The organizers argue that the exploitation of wild animals should not be tolerated in public spaces, advocating for strict financial and legal penalties against such practices. They firmly believe that Marrakech's appeal as a tourist destination should not come at the expense of the welfare and dignity of animals. As reported by en.yabiladi.com.
