Morocco's prime minister, Aziz Akhannouch, has praised the security forces' reaction to ongoing protests over corruption and public spending, as the death toll rose to three. In a statement, he said the government was ready for talks. The protests, which began with demands for better education and healthcare, have escalated into widespread unrest across the country.
Local authorities reported that two people were killed in the southern city of Lqliâa on Wednesday night after security forces opened fire. A third death was later confirmed. According to Morocco's state news agency, Map, police acted in self-defence after protesters stormed a security facility, setting fire to part of it and a vehicle. Security forces used firearms after teargas failed to stop the group, which was armed with knives.
The protests were sparked by anger over poor hospital conditions after eight women died in a public hospital in Agadir. They have been organised online by a loosely formed anonymous youth group, GenZ 212, using platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Discord. Membership in the group's Discord server has surged from about 3,000 to over 130,000 in a week.
The interior ministry reported 263 security personnel and 23 civilians injured during clashes. On Wednesday night, violence spread to Salé, where young men hurled stones at police, looted shops, and set banks and police vehicles on fire. Mass arrests have occurred in more than a dozen cities, particularly in areas with scarce jobs and poor social services.
Protesters are decrying widespread corruption, contrasting billions in investment for the 2030 World Cup with underfunded schools and hospitals. Chants of “Stadiums are here, but where are the hospitals?” have highlighted deep disparities. Officials deny prioritising World Cup spending over public infrastructure, blaming inherited problems.
GenZ 212 has called for a sixth night of “peaceful protests” starting at 1600 GMT. Analysts note that the unrest reflects economic grievances in urbanised areas with young populations, similar to protests in other countries. The government has scheduled a parliamentary meeting to discuss healthcare reforms.
