Riots: Authorities Warn Against Fake News Seeking to Cause Panic Among Citizens

Rabat – Authorities are warning citizens against fake news that seeks to cause panic among citizens amid unrest linked to vandalism and riots.

This comes as voice notes and messages viral online, including on messaging applications, have warned of upcoming large-scale protests in Casablanca, Rabat, and nearby regions. The circulating claims alleged that further vandalism could erupt and urged shopkeepers to close their businesses and employees to evacuate workplaces.

However, authorities in Casablanca described similar reports as fake news, denouncing and condemning the circulation of false information aimed at disturbing the peace of the city’s residents.

Morocco has been witnessing a series of peaceful protests led by GenZ212 and Morocco Youth Voice that were overshadowed by riots and vandalism across the country.

Many young people were engaged in rioting, including against police security vehicles and Royal Gendarmerie headquarters in the Souss-Massa region and in the Oriental.

In Rabat and Casablanca, vandalism and rioting persisted, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday, sparking concerns nationwide.

Many citizens have emphasized the importance of freedom of expression and assembly, but argue that protests should be peaceful and should not undermine the country’s stability and citizens’ safety.

Others blame authorities for their initial security approach toward peaceful protests that took place last week during the weekend.

Peaceful protests continue to persist in many cities, including Tetouan, Tangier, and Casablanca. On Wednesday and Thursday, security services were reportedly present, but there were no instances of widespread arrests or interventions. 

Now, protesters are calling for King Mohammed VI’s intervention, signaling mistrust against the government led by Aziz Akhannouch.

The Moroccan government pledged that it is ready to engage in dialogue with the youth to discuss their demands.

It remains to be seen whether the government will be able to ensure an open dialogue to address a situation that the international media is following up on closely. Some international media have also interpreted the situation as a refusal to allow Morocco to host prestigious events like AFCON and the World Cup 2030.

However, what prevails in the North African country’s youth is that they want reforms prioritizing key sectors like healthcare and education. While they wish for Morocco to develop in sectors such as entertainment and sports, these come as secondary to the basic needs of health and education.