In a televised interview with CNN, Monday, the spokesperson for Morocco's Interior Ministry defended the way security forces have handled recent youth-led demonstrations across the country, some of which turned violent, resulting in deaths, arrests, and incidents of vandalism, looting, and arson. Speaking specifically about the deaths of three people in Lqliâa on Wednesday, October 1, Rachid El Khalfi said the fatalities occurred «within the framework of self-defense». He explained that officers had been exposed to danger and that «video footage shows instigators attempting to burn police facilities». He confirmed that «the public prosecutor has launched an investigation under the supervision of the Attorney General», but added that it was «too early for conclusions». Addressing allegations of excessive force, including a video showing a police vehicle ramming into protesters in Oujda, El Khalfi stated that the clip «was taken out of context» and does not show what happened beforehand, «such as stone-throwing». He stressed that an investigation is ongoing and that «the state is committed to ensuring proportional responses», adding that «all incidents, whether involving protesters or police, are being investigated seriously and in accordance with the law». The spokesperson also insisted that «there is no escalation of violence at this time». He said that «the protests are being managed peacefully and with flexibility», noting that while some demonstrations were initially unauthorized because their organizers were unknown, «authorities have since adapted and allowed gatherings under clear conditions of responsibility». Concluding his remarks, El Khalfi expressed confidence that the situation remains under control, asserting that «the Moroccan context is unique and stable».
