By commemorating the Revolution of the King and the People this year, Morocco remembers a past of struggle and determination that will continue to inspire present and future generations.
On this historic day, Morocco celebrates the 71st anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People, an iconic event that perpetuates the memory of a nation inclined towards freedom and justice under the liberal rule of Sultan Mohammed V.
This anniversary, revered by Moroccans, is etched in collective memory as the moment when the country began to break free from the shackles of French colonialism. At the beginning of the 20th century, Morocco was under French and Spanish protectorate. Power structures were rigid, consolidating dominance over the political and economic spheres.
However, the people’s desire to take control of their own destiny found voice in the nationalist movement, which continued to grow under leaders like Mohammed V and more vigorously demanded national sovereignty and profound reforms. One date is etched in history: August 20, 1953. On that day, Sultan Mohammed V, a unanimous leader of the Moroccan resistance, was brutally deported by French authorities to Corsica, then to Madagascar.
This attempt to silence a symbol of unity sparked not only anger but also unprecedented support from the Moroccan people.
Flexibility and resistance
Far from quelling the desire for independence, the sultan’s exile only intensified nationalist sentiment. The months following his exile saw a surge in resistance movements and political activism. The streets erupted with demonstrations and battles, as Moroccan voices united to demand the return of their king and an end to the colonial yoke.
The perseverance of the Moroccan people begins to bear fruit. In 1955, Sultan Mohammed V made his triumphant return, marking the beginning of a journey toward independence, which was quickly achieved on March 2, 1956. This liberation is celebrated not only as a victory over imperialism, but also as a triumph of the indomitable spirit of a united people.
The Revolution of the King and the People left an indelible mark on Morocco’s national identity. It represents a glorious chapter in the country’s history, highlighting the sacrifices made to build a sovereign nation.
Today, the commemoration also serves as a moment of reflection on Morocco’s political evolution, characterised by the establishment of a strong constitutional monarchy, with King Mohammed V and his descendants playing a key role in shaping the Kingdom’s socio-economic future.
New hope arises on the international scene
This year, the celebration of the Revolution of the King and the People takes on special significance with growing international recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty, particularly over its Sahara. On 30 July, in an important gesture, France reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara’s southern provinces, a turning point that adds to the Kingdom’s recent diplomatic achievements.
In a letter addressed to King Mohammed VI, French President Emmanuel Macron declared that ” The autonomy plan proposed by Morocco in 2007 remains the only viable basis for a lasting and negotiated political solution », Thus strengthening Morocco’s position on the international stage.
In response, King Mohammed VI welcomed France’s firm and consistent position, expressing hope that this support would contribute to strengthening stability and resolving the conflict inherited from the colonial past.
This anniversary is not only a celebration of the past, but also an invitation to move forward on the path of democracy, unity and sustainable development under the wise auspices of the Moroccan Monarchy.
mn/sf/ac/apa