Morocco Rolls Back Democracy Under Cover of Covid-19
One of the world’s wealthiest monarchs is using coronavirus to complete a reversal of democratic reforms that made the country a standout in a turbulent region.
The Medina in Rabat. Morocco’s leadership is using the pandemic to complete its reversal of democratic reforms.
Photographer: Mosa'ab Elshamy/AP Photo
Behind the ancient walls surrounding Morocco’s capital of Rabat lies El Mechouar Essaid Palace. The main residence of one of the world’s wealthiest monarchs, its name literally means “venue of happiness.”
Yet on a recent weekday a 15-minute walk away from the 19th-century complex, the mood was one of despair. A dozen people were airing grievances at the “Makhzen,” the centuries-old network of advisers, spies, military men and business interests that orbits the monarchy and has been tightening its grip on the North African country.