Marrakech – Calls to boycott Algerian comedian Nawell Madani have intensified in Morocco following the announcement of her upcoming performance at Mohammed V Theater in Rabat, scheduled for April 1.
The backlash erupted after past remarks made by Madani resurfaced on social media, with many Moroccans viewing the comments as offensive to Moroccan women.
During a previous interview on Canal+, Madani referenced what she described as a joke about Moroccan women, saying: “There was a little joke we made about Moroccan women practicing witchcraft,” before adding, “That’s what people say.”
The comment has since been widely criticized for reinforcing harmful stereotypes and misrepresenting Moroccan culture.
Online users and cultural commentators have denounced the statement, arguing that it damages the image of Moroccan women and reflects a broader pattern of cultural disrespect.
In response, activists have launched a campaign calling for the cancellation of Madani’s Rabat show, also criticizing event organizers for continuing to host Algerian artists despite what they describe as repeated hostile rhetoric toward Morocco in political, cultural, and media contexts.
On X, the controversy has fueled the spread of hashtags such as #boycott_nawell_madani and #boycottmadani, with users urging organizers to withdraw the event.
Separately from the cultural dispute, Madani was summoned by the Paris prosecutor’s office in 2025 following an incident involving a six-year-old child.
According to Le Monde, the incident occurred in the street and led to a legal review. Madani later stated that her reaction happened in a moment of panic after she perceived a threat.
French judicial authorities opted for an alternative legal measure described as a “civic contribution,” avoiding a full criminal trial.
Her legal team said the comedian was “deeply affected” by the incident, while reports indicated that the child sustained minor injuries. According to Le Parisien, the child had approached Madani to take a photo when the incident occurred.
