LA MIDDLE EASTERN POLICY EXAMINER: Unlike the positive news from Morocco in connection with International Women’s Day, the North African country recently narrowed the scope of personal freedom for two minorities, Shia Moslems and gays.
First, Morocco ended diplomatic ties with Iran, stating that Iran was spreading Shia Islam within Morocco. Since Iran is a prominent state sponsor of terrorism and Islamism, this might have been a mere pretext. However, the authorities went on to arrest several Moroccans for converting to Shia Islam. An Iraqi school in Rabat was closed following parents’ complaints that the school promoted Shia Islam.
Foreign Minister Taeib Fassi Fihri criticized Moroccan associations seeking to develop Shia Islam in the country, allegedly with Iranian support: “Morocco cannot accept that activities of this type be conducted, directly or indirectly, or via a so-called nongovernmental organization.” He called it an “attack on the foundations” of the country and on the “cement” of Malekite Islam, the form of Sunni Islam prevalent in Morocco.
Second, on March 21 the Interior Ministry issued a statement: “Certain media are taking a stand for certain ignominious behaviors, which is a provocation for the national public opinion. Any act contrary to moral or religious values will be repressed.” An anonymous ministry official said on March 24 that this was a reference to newspapers that had advocated greater tolerance for homosexuality. >>> Paul Kujawsky | Friday, March 27, 2009
