Political reform pledged for Morocco

In Morocco King Mohammed VI has announced plans to introduce constitutional reforms. The monarch appeared live on national television and said a committee would look at changes aimed at improving democracy and the rule of law.

As King he enjoys wide ranging royal prerogatives such as choosing a prime minister and holding sway over the judiciary.

“Our initiative for a constitutional reform is considered an essential step to reinforce our democratic and developmental approach. We will work on reinforcing this through continuing political, economic, social and cultural reforms in order to ensure that all institutions are playing their roles,” said the King.

It is understood the role of the prime minister and how he is appointed to office will be under scrutiny. The King also pledged that future parliamentary elections will be free and that the head of the winning party will form the new government.

The committee is expected to report to the King by June; the monarch has already said a referendum would be held on the draft constitution.

In February thousands of people took to the streets in several cities demanding political reform. Six people were killed after these demonstrations. This was the first King’s address to the nation since the protests.

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