The Gen Z protesters took to the streets again to demand reforms in the health and education sectors in Morocco following backlash over the stagnant economy and poor health infrastructure.
Protesters said, “We no longer have confidence in the government. We're waiting for the king to talk to us; he has to save his people.” The main protest was organised at the country’s capital, Rabat, with subsequent gatherings reported in the cities of Casablanca and Tangier.
On Thursday evening, government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas made fresh calls for dialogue with the youth collective GenZ 212, which has been a major group staging the nationwide protests since late September, demanding change and reforms.
He said, "The message has been received, and the government is working quickly to mobilise resources and address shortfalls." The protesters have been taking to the streets almost every night over the past weeks, with the unrest rocking the historically stable North African nation.
At least three people lost their lives in violent clashes with security forces last week, while dozens more have been arrested by the police authorities.
"We hope the other side will come forward so that we can listen to their proposals and work on this issue together," Baitas said, noting that the authorities were "accelerating projects", particularly in healthcare.
Mohammed VI is set to give a speech at the opening of parliament's session on Friday, which will be an important address to the nation as well.
Morocco’s health minister, Amine Tehraoui, on Tuesday described conditions in the sector as being marked by "chronic deficits". As per official data, more than 10 million people in Morocco, out of 37 million, are covered under the free health insurance as part of the gradual rollout of universal coverage initiated in 2021.
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