Former Moroccan PM Benkirane Criticizes PJD Deputy Over Unveiled Photos Controversy

In an audio recording on Benkirane’s official page, we can hear the latter’s remarks, condemning the way in which deputy Amina Maelainine reacts to the accusations that are being hurled at her from all sides. Benkirane sums it up as follows: "She has often been criticized and I have defended her on several occasions. But her behavior is not worthy and tarnishes the image of the PJD. It is because of her that the party has been attacked several times and I told her so anyway."

For Benkirane, not only is Maelainine going astray, but she is negatively inspiring other women in the PJD: "Amina Maelainine is not the only one. I have the impression that several sisters within the PJD have been inspired by her. Many women in the party have made the same mistakes."

According to him, Amina Maelainine should have followed his advice: "If you had taken my advice from the beginning, I would have advised you to face the whole world and say ’So what?’. The fact that these photos are true or doctored is no one’s business." Really? Would a controversy have been opened against a PAM or RNI elected official who would have hypothetically removed her veil? Isn’t there really no betrayal of the voters? Removing a veil and putting it back on when it suits you is it not more undeniable hypocrisy than anything else?

Abdelilah Benkirane also reveals the bottom of his thinking on this controversy: "Every woman is free to make her choices. Removing the veil abroad and wearing it in Morocco is an individual freedom. If your husband does not appreciate your choices, let him repudiate you. If you violate the law, let justice punish you. If you violate the internal regulations of your party, let the leaders sanction you. But no one has the right to interfere in certain personal choices like the veil."