King Mohamed VI
It seems to me that the king would only agree to democratisation to the extent that it makes his rule look more legitimate. Although there is an elected parliament in Morocco, most of the power rests outside this system. The government's decision-making powers are constrained by the fact that many other members of parliament are indirectly appointed, and the key ministries are given to confidants of the king who may not even be a member of a political party. Indeed, the current prime minister, Driss Jettou, isn't in any party. So I reckon that M6 would like to throw in some superficial reforms to make it look like he is liberalising, without actually devolving meaningful power outside of the palace.
The increasing popularity of the Islamist movements are putting pressure on the more established political actors in Morocco, so I'm confident that my nationalist/conservative colleagues can do a deal with the king to gain some power and marginalise the Islamists.
Great to get one assignment out of the way. As usual, I was up all night last night putting on the finishing touches. I didn't get to bed till after 0600. And the next deadline is just three days away!! But it's all under control. I've done plenty of groundwork for this next one during the week. Roll on Monday...
2 comments:
Nice article Paul. When I was in Morocco in 1999, the tour guides spoke of the king linking their local currency with the dollar, and mentioned his influential role in Government. They spoke positively of him and indicated that he was talking about introducing reforms for the role of women in marriage, education, life etc. I don't know if he followed through on any of these, but the prospect seemed possible at the time.
It sounds like an interesting essay to write for me becaus it is different from commenting on items which you are removed from. Here, while you are still removed from it, you can imagine the scenario and the likely situations faced. It puts you more in touch I think. It makes a change from an essay that involves paraphrasing items from a text book. Not that any of us do that of course, but I heard a rumour somewhere that it does go on.
Anyway just stopped by, hope you got a good mark.
Thanks for stopping by, Merv - always glad to have a visitor.
You're right about that essay being interesting - it forces you to deal with practical stuff. I love theoretical stuff, so half the time my head is up in the clouds when I'm writing my assignments, but with this one I had to be very practical and realistic.
Interesting what you say about your experience in Morocco. My extensive and in-depth (:p) research tells me that there is no prospect of the king ever introducing meaningful reforms - superficial ones, yes - but it's interesting that he was able to create the impression that he's a real reformer. He obviously convinced those guys you were talking to - but then, they had an interest in promoting their own country since they are tour guides...
Cynically yours...
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