Morocco Denies Pegasus Spyware Allegations, Claims Victim Status in Espionage Scandal

Far from being the instigator in the espionage affair with the "Pegasus" software, Morocco would in fact be "the victim" of the affair, according to Chakib Benmoussa in an interview with the weekly Le Point, adding that it is time to find out who is behind this software.

"Morocco has categorically and firmly rejected the allegations, false and unfounded, and which are not supported by any evidence. This is a massive campaign, the timing and scale of which can only be thought-provoking. We must question its origin, and the motivations of certain circles seeking to attack Morocco," he said.

The ambassador’s strategy in the face of this accusation is one of denial. In the JDD, Chakib Benmoussa affirms that "Morocco did not spy on President Emmanuel Macron", he even denies the acquisition of this software by the kingdom.

Moreover, "Morocco is now able to have an ambitious and realistic collective project for the next 15 years, the fundamental objective of which is the well-being and autonomy of Moroccans. The pandemic has highlighted certain challenges related to dependence on the outside world in strategic areas, the role of the State and territories in protecting citizens or the place of digital technology to improve certain services or strengthen social inclusion," notes the diplomat who dwelt at length on the new Moroccan turn that would have disturbed certain regional forces.

"The new development model has identified five bets that could constitute a lever for deepening partnership and co-development links with Africa at the bilateral, regional and continental levels: digital; higher education and research; competitive low-carbon energy; the regional financial center of reference and Made in Maroc," he mentioned.