Morocco Considers Easing COVID Restrictions for Ramadan, Rumors Circulate

In a document circulated on social networks, it is indicated that the easing measures can take place during the month of Ramadan. A total of six measures: establishment of a night curfew from 00:00 to 06:00, closure of markets one hour before the breaking of the fast, opening of cafes after the call to prayer of Maghrib until 11:00 p.m., with a ban on serving the ftour, closure of shops at 11:00 p.m. and ban on gatherings for the ftour meal.

Another message with the same content also circulated on social networks. The only difference: it was specified that it is only "proposals to the government". A source at the Wilaya of the Casablanca-Settat region explained to H24info that "the information has been circulating for four days, but has not been denied." However, "the information is not official, and as long as there is no press release, it is only a rumor," she added.

According to Noureddine Harak, president of the National Association of Café and Restaurant Owners in Morocco (ANPCRM), this rumor "has been insistent for several days." "We even discussed it during our last meeting. [...] We asked for explanations from the Ministry of the Interior and Health, who told us over the weekend that the information is not official," he said.