King Mohammed VI's Eid decision reflects widespread sentiment amid livestock and price challenges

King Mohammed VI urged Moroccans today not to perform the Eid al-Adha sacrifice this year, citing the ongoing climatic and economic challenges facing the country in a decision that mirrors previous instances when similar hardships led to the suspension of the ritual. 

“We call upon our dear people to refrain from performing the Eid al-Adha sacrifice this year. We will, God willing, perform the sacrifice on behalf of our people, following the tradition of our grandfather,”he said in a speech read by Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Ahmed Toufiq on national TV.

A 2024 study by the High Commission for Planning found that 12.6% of households did not observe the ritual in 2022, a significant increase from 4.7% in 2014, with economic factors, such as the rising costs of sacrificial animals, are central to this shift.

 In a survey by the Moroccan Center for Citizenship (CMC) in 2024, 85% of respondents expressed concern that the price of sacrificial animals would increase, while 57% agreed that the cancellation of Eid last year alleviated some of the financial strain.

The King’s decision aligns with past actions in times of hardship. In his message, he acknowledged that “while the Eid sacrifice is a confirmed Sunnah, performing it under these circumstances would cause significant harm.”

 This mirrors earlier moments in Morocco’s history, such as in 1996, when King Hassan II suspended the ritual due to drought and economic hardship.

 At that time, the King explained that the rising costs of livestock would disproportionately affect the majority of Moroccans, especially those with limited incomes.

The national livestock herd declined by 38% since 2016 due to seven consecutive years of drought leading to a rise in livestock imports, and yet prices remaining high, creating a stark contrast between supply and demand.

King Mohammed VI’s message ultimately called for spiritual observance of Eid, urging citizens to engage in the usual practices of prayer, charity, and family connections, and urged the nation to adapt to the current realities while preserving the core values of the celebration.