Rabat – Morocco is celebrating on Saturday the 69th anniversary of the return of the late King Mohammed V from exile. This day is a tribute to the bond between the Moroccan people and the late king, the struggle for independence, and the restoration of territorial integrity.
The country celebrates the annual holiday on November 16 to reflect on Morocco’s journey toward national liberation and the sacrifices made to end the French Protectorate, which began on March 30, 1912. It also celebrates the patriotism, devotion, and resilience of the Moroccan people during their fight for freedom.
The legacy of Sultan Mohammed Ben Youssef
During the colonial period, Sultan Mohammed Ben Youssef, who later became King Mohammed V, was a symbol of resistance and unity. His collaboration with the National Movement and his historic speech in Tangier amplified the demands for independence. The Sultan’s strong support for the cause eventually led to his exile, along with the Royal Family, to Corsica in 1953 and later to Madagascar in 1954.
The exile sparked nationwide outrage, with Moroccans rallying against the occupation. Underground resistance cells and secret organizations emerged, launching a wave of armed resistance against colonial forces.
On November 16, 1955, King Mohammed V’s return from exile marked a turning point in Morocco’s history and signaled the end of colonial rule. His subsequent actions united the country in its pursuit of freedom, dignity, and progress, culminating in official independence from France on March 2, 1956.
This momentous return represented the sacrifices made by both the King and his people to restore Morocco and ensure a future grounded in the country’s sacred values and traditions.
Continued efforts under successive monarchs
King Hassan II, who succeeded King Mohammed V, carried forward the mission of national development and territorial integrity, most notably through the historic Green March that secured the return of Morocco’s southern provinces.
Today, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, Morocco continues to defend its territorial unity while advancing comprehensive development.
Sustainable progress and human development is at the core of the monarch’s social policies to ensure dignity for all citizens.
