Doha – Moroccans marks a solemn yet historic moment today, 10th Ramadan 1446 (March 10, 2025), as they commemorate the 66th anniversary of the passing of King Mohammed V – the legendary leader who spearheaded Morocco’s fight for independence and left an unshakable legacy in the nation’s history.
The late monarch, who passed away on February 26, 1961, merely four years after securing the nation’s independence, left an indelible mark on Morocco’s political landscape.
Born on August 10, 1909, in Fez, Mohammed Ben Youssef ascended to the throne in 1927 as the third son of Sultan Moulay Youssef. His reign witnessed crucial moments in Morocco’s history, particularly during the French protectorate period established by the 1912 Treaty of Fez.
A defining moment in the independence movement came on January 11, 1944, with the presentation of the Independence Manifesto. This bold initiative demonstrated the unity between the throne, the national movement, and the people.
The movement gained further momentum when the Sultan delivered a landmark speech in Tangier on April 10, 1947, formally declaring Morocco’s demand for independence.
During this period, Thami El Glaoui, the Pasha of Marrakech, allied with French General Alphonse Juin in a failed attempt to overthrow the sultan.
The colonial authorities’ response to these independence efforts led to the forced exile of Mohammed V and the royal family in August 1953, first to Corsica and then to Madagascar.
This action, intended to weaken the independence movement, instead catalyzed widespread popular uprising and armed resistance against colonial forces.
The monarch’s exile ended with his triumphant return on November 16, 1955, followed by Morocco’s declaration of independence in 1956. Mohammed V was subsequently proclaimed King in August 1957, marking a new chapter in Morocco’s history.
During World War II, Mohammed V demonstrated strategic leadership, maintaining relations with France while protecting his people’s interests. Notably, he opposed the implementation of Vichy government’s anti-Jewish legislation in Morocco.
He participated in the Anfa and Casablanca conferences, where discussions with President Roosevelt opened new possibilities for Morocco’s future.
He rejected a 1943 proposal for joint US-British-French-Spanish protectorate over Morocco, maintaining his ultimate goal of complete independence.
Following independence, Mohammed V focused on establishing a modern state based on democratic principles. His death in Rabat in 1961 marked the end of an era, with his son Hassan II succeeding him to the throne.
The commemorative atmosphere today shines a spotlight on this crucial turning point in Morocco’s history – marking its transformation from a protectorate to an independent nation.
It also shows the unified struggle between the monarchy and the national movement in securing the North African country’s sovereignty.
