News / Africa

2,000 March in Moroccan Capital to Demand Political Reforms

Moroccans gather during a protest demanding broad political reforms in Morocco in Rabat, February 20, 2011
Moroccans gather during a protest demanding broad political reforms in Morocco in Rabat, February 20, 2011
TEXT SIZE - +

Anti-government activists in Morocco have marched to demand political reforms limiting the power of King Mohammed - the latest in a series of such protests in the Arab world.

At least 2,000 people rallied in the capital, Rabat, Sunday, answering a protest call issued on social networking site Facebook. Marchers shouted slogans demanding a new constitution, greater economic opportunities and a crackdown on corruption.

Some plainclothes police mingled with the demonstrators while uniformed officers kept their distance. The protest were peaceful as of midday.

Organizers say they want democratic reforms to a constitution that gives King Mohammed sweeping powers, including the right to appoint the prime minister. But, the protesters made no direct criticisms of the king, who has earned a reputation as a reformist since ascending to the throne in 1999.

The Moroccan government has portrayed the new protest movement as a sign of the country's political openness.

One Moroccan youth movement said Saturday it was pulling out of the Rabat rally due to the inclusion of Islamist and leftist groups among the protesters.

Some information for this report was provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.

You May Like

South Africa to Host World's Biggest Telescope

South Africa competed against Australia to host the telescope, the final decision was to split the SKA between the two countries More

Report: Global Warming Could Reverse Development

World Bank study says warmer climates threaten advances and could exacerbate poverty in world’s poorest regions More

Inmates Fight Fires, Gain Skills for Life After Prison

In California, physically fit inmates with no history of violent crimes can train, work as firefighters while serving their time More

This forum has been closed.
Comments
     
There are no comments in this forum. Be first and add one

Featured Videos

Your JavaScript is turned off or you have an old version of Adobe's Flash Player. Get the latest Flash player.
Your JavaScript is turned off or you have an old version of Adobe's Flash Player. Get the latest Flash player.
Video

Video Inmates Fight Fires, Gain Skills for Life After Prison

The western state of California is known for wildfires that can quickly burn out of control, and this year the fire season has been extremely busy. Because of the fire risk, the state has some of the most experienced firefighters in the industry. It also enlists the help of prisoners to stop the fires. VOA's Elizabeth Lee reports from southern California.