“The Moroccan people, will celebrate moments of strength, identity and unity,” said Morocco’s Ambassador, His Excellency Mr Abderrahim Rahhaly, commenting on the commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto celebrated all across the Kingdom of Morocco every 11 January. “It represents a ground-breaking event in Morocco’s cotemporary colonial history.”
The Independence Manifesto stands for Morocco’s proclamation for complete independence from French and Spanish colonial powers who settled in the country from 1912 to 1956. “it is more than a document, it is an annual recognition of Moroccans common values of patriotism, faith, loyalty, service and optimism to achieve a shared goal, that of independence.”
In 1912, the Kingdom of Morocco was split into three zones of occupation. While France occupied the centre part of Morocco, Spain settled in the Northern and Southern parts of the country. Tangier, which is situated in the North of Morocco, was entrusted to a Council composed of 12 regions.
Being signed in 1944 by 66 men and women of the Moroccan National Movement, the Independence Manifesto reflects Moroccans’ struggle for freedom and determination to protect their country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“Such a sense of sacrifice has been carried on since then by Moroccans who remain committed to support their country’s longstanding process of protecting, defending and promoting its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” His Excellency added.
If the Independence Manifesto represents a step forward to Morocco’s independence, its spirit remains intact and is reflected in the country’s objectives of fulfilling socioeconomic development, in implementing structural plans and strategies and in building a strong Nation under the farsighted leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
