Marrakech – ElGrandeToto’s clash with former Moroccan Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane took an unexpected turn when the rapper turned an insult into a marketing opportunity.
Instead of getting defensive, ElGrandeToto embraced the attack with humor, announcing his upcoming mixtape titled “Salgoat.”
The title is a clever play on words, merging the Darija insult “salgot” (scum) with “GOAT” (Greatest Of All Time), transforming an insult into a badge of pride.
Toto, whose popularity extends beyond national borders, even teased the project on his social media, ironically thanking Benkirane for the “inspiration” and “free publicity.”
He added that he hoped the former prime minister would listen to the project once it was released.
The tweet was provocative, with Toto referring to Benkirane as “Loser Former Prime Minister.”
Read Also: ‘Disgrace, Scum’: Benkirane Slams ElGrandeToto for Destroying Moroccan Values
The feud began when Abdelilah Benkirane called ElGrandeToto a “salgot.”
Speaking on September 12 at the opening session of the PJD’s 18th National Youth Congress, Benkirane accused ElGrandeToto and similar artists of “diluting” the morals of Moroccan youth, making it easier to “control our country now and in the future.”
He expressed disbelief that anyone could view the rapper as a positive influence, challenging Moroccan parents by saying, “If Toto is so good, take him to your home, have your children learn from him, and bring them the drugs he takes!”
The statement followed Toto’s performance of an opening song welcoming the political party Rally of Independents (RNI), led by current head of government Aziz Akhannouch, during the 5th edition of the RNI’s young members congress in September.
In the same month, ElGrandeToto responded to the remarks, taking to his social media to clarify that he has no affiliation with any political party.
In response to Benkirane’s comments, Goad Prod, a music production agency involved in promoting artists, also reacted. “It is essential to remind Mr. Benkirane that the Moroccan political scene has significantly evolved since 2011,” they said in a statement.
The agency added, “Today’s public discourse requires reflection that addresses contemporary challenges, making his comments even more revealing.”
Read Also: ‘ElGrande Toto’ Responds to Abdelilah Benkirane’s ‘Scum’ Label
The clash between ElGrandeToto and Abdelilah Benkirane represents a collision of two generations and contrasting visions.
On one side stands the conservative politician, who criticizes what he perceives as the moral decline of youth.
On the other, an artist who embodies a rapidly evolving urban culture, with messages of freedom and self-empowerment that resonate deeply with Morocco’s younger generation.
Social media plays a key role in amplifying the feud. Benkirane’s remarks ignited a firestorm online, while Toto’s sarcastic, defiant responses have further cemented his image as a rebellious icon.
With the release of his mixtape “Salgoat” just around the corner, ElGrandeToto has already unveiled the cover art and tracklist on Instagram.
Adding a cheeky twist to the drama, ElGrandeToto even created an Instagram account under the name “Salgoat” — a clear nod to the challenge and his signature sarcasm.
The project opens with a track that shares its name, setting the tone for what promises to be a bold statement from the artist.
