Violence erupts in Morocco’s Gen Z protests

Morocco’s Gen Z protests passed the threshold of violence with skirmishes between authorities and the people. As seen in MaghrebiWeek on October 6^th, the youth protests began to become ever-increasingly frustrated with ignored demands, this then caused many of them to turn to violence in several cities. Lootings, fires, and riots took place in several cities and authorities also responded with violence.

In the region of Inezgane-Ait Melloul, three people died after being shot by police. Crowds were reportedly attempting to attack police headquarters which then forced the officers to open fire, unfortunately leading to the deaths and injuries.

Moroccan psychosociologist Mochine Benzakour stated that intervention from authorities only stoked the fire more. “When authorities intervene without providing dialogue, people are left to interpret things on their own. This creates space for those who want to exploit the situation for different objectives. All possibilities become open.”

MaghrebiWeek, Maghrebi