Algerian Singer’s Morocco Concert Sparks Outrage Over Past Remarks

Many Moroccan Internet users are firmly opposed to this invitation, recalling the controversial statements of the artist against Morocco.

In May 2016, during an interview with the Algerian channel Echourouk, Cheb Bilal had made remarks considered offensive by the Moroccans. He had notably declared that he did not wish to obtain Moroccan nationality, considering that he did not need it, "even if it was given to him for free". These statements had aroused general indignation, with Internet users accusing the singer of denying his success with the Moroccan public.

Although Cheb Bilal tried to calm the situation in a later video, claiming that "Moroccan nationality is in his heart", the criticism has not subsided. For many Moroccans, the singer of raï’s remarks are an attack on national dignity and a questioning of Morocco’s role in his career.