Rabat — Taha Fahssi, known by his stage name El GrandeToto, responded to remarks made by former head of government Abdelilah Benkirane who recently attacked the singer, labeling him as “scum.”
Toto took to his social media, clarifying that he has no affiliation with any political party.
The statement came after Toto performed an opening song welcoming the political party Rally of Independents (RNI), led by the current head of government Aziz Akhannouch, during the 5th edition of the young members of RNI congress earlier this week.
The situation sparked widespread criticism from Benkirane, leader of the Justice and Development Party (PJD).
On Thursday, Benkirane shared his beliefs that singers like Toto are a “scum.”
Lashing out at the government, Benkirane said “Now I will say it to our state and our people. These political parties that bring us the likes of Toto and so on, what is their intent? Their purpose is to dilute our Moroccan youth to make it easier to control our country now and in the future.”
He continued,“If Toto is so good, take him to your home, have your children learn from him, and bring them the drugs he takes!”
In response to Benkirane’s remarks, Goad Prod, an agency involved in music production and promoting artists’ profiles, also reacted, saying: “It is essential to remind Mr. Benkirane that the Moroccan political scene has significantly evolved since 2011.”
“Today’s public discourse demands a level of reflection that matches contemporary challenges, which makes his comments even more revealing,” the agency added.. “Mr. Benkirane continues to engage in demagoguery without providing concrete solutions to the real problems of the people he claims.”
The agency further commented that Toto “actively contributes to improving Morocco’s image on the international stage,” adding that Moroccan people are “now fully aware of Mr. Benkirane’s blatant incompetence and that of his party.”
The agency also accused Benkirane of using religion for “political purposes to portray oneself as a saint,” adding that this approach is an outdated strategy.”
“We strongly advise Mr. Benkirane to enjoy his retirement and refrain from insulting others. Lest he face legal consequences,” the statement concluded.
