In an address to the people of Morocco this evening, His Majesty King Mohammed VI outlined bold Constitutional amendments that establish the Moroccan Kingdom as a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary system with sovereignty vested in the people. The reforms strengthen Morocco's governing institutions—in particular a Prime Minister as Head of Government, Parliament, and an independent Judiciary. In keeping with King Mohammed VI's promise, the people of Morocco will "have the final say" in a national referendum set for July 1.
Highlights of the new Constitutional amendments and initiatives:
- Changes will bring about a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government with sovereignty vested in the people.
- The Head of Government will be a Prime Minister appointed from the party that wins the general election, with the power to propose and dismiss cabinet members, and propose senior government officials and Ambassadors.
- It will establish an independent Judiciary, and guarantee freedom from illegal searches or detention, privacy for communications, and the right to trial and a lawyer for anyone arrested by the authorities.
- A robust regionalization initiative will transfers power from central government authorities to elected local and regional officials directly accountable to citizens.
- Equality of all citizens regardless of sex, origin, language, religion, or creed is guaranteed.
- Amazigh, for the first time, will be recognized as an official language following Arabic, the traditional official language.
- Institutions will be strengthened to promote good governance, human rights, and protection of freedoms.
- Mechanisms to ensure oversight and accountability in the exercise of power in public office will be established.
- The national referendum to approve the amendments will be held on July 1st.
For the Full Text of His Majesty King Mohammed VI's June 17th speech, go to:
http://www.map.ma/eng/sections/main1/hm_the_king_addresse/view
