Protests in Morocco, announced for today, are getting a large turnout all over the country, with the greatest protest marches in Rabat and Casablanca - the kingdom's capital and its largest city. But also minor cities are seeing protest marches, including Marrakech, Tangier, Fez and Al-Hoceima
Protesters are calling for pro-democracy reforms in the kingdom. There are no calls for a republic, but many calling for less power to King Mohammed VI and the introduction of a constitutional monarchy according to the Spanish or British model.
Anger is more directed against the government - appointed by the King - and the ruling class at large, including pervasive corruption in the country. Protesters demand more democracy, less corruption and deep-ploughing social reforms.
The atmosphere is described as peaceful and orderly in all places. Neither the police not the army have interfered with the protest marches, which had been allowed by authorities. Protesters are reported to act "civilised".
Some of the original organisers of the protests however feel that protesters in the capital are behaving "too civilised". No slogans are chanted and no anti-monarchy sentiments are aired.
But the protests during the afternoon soon could develop their own dynamics. In Rabat, protesters are already reported to move from Hassan II Boulevard towards parliament to present their demands. As the extent of the marches is becoming known - they are widely aired in national media - more and more people are daring to join the manifestation.
> afrol.com
