Morocco’s ruling party voices understanding of Gen Z protests

Morocco’s National Rally of Independents (RNI), the party leading the governing coalition, expressed understanding on Wednesday for youth-led protests organized under the “Gen Z 212” banner, signaling a willingness to engage with their demands.

In a statement following its political bureau meeting, the RNI said it recognized these “expressions, whether online or in the streets,” and pledged to pursue dialogue. The party, led by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, noted that the movement’s aspirations align with government priorities in health, education and social policy.

The RNI emphasized that listening to social demands is key to accelerating public policy implementation and affirmed its readiness to participate in public debate with youth inside institutions. It also praised law enforcement’s “balanced” handling of demonstrations, while criticizing rival political forces it accused of exploiting the protests to spread misinformation and undermine institutions.