Morocco Tightens Rules on Naming Public Spaces After Controversy

This circular follows the naming of streets after Salafist sheikhs by the PJD mayor of Temara, which had sparked heated controversy. The purpose of this circular is to "explain the procedures and modalities relating to the naming of public squares and roads when this designation constitutes a public tribute or a reminder of a historical event, in accordance with the provisions of the organic law relating to municipalities," the minister specifies. For Abdelouafi Laftit, it is necessary that the choice of street names be relevant.

Henceforth, the naming of public squares and roads will be applicable after its validation by the governor within a period of 20 days from the date of receipt of the decision of the municipal council. However, the naming of squares and roads after the name of King Mohammed VI and the royal family must require the attention of the municipal councils during the deliberations. Upstream, the governors will have to submit the file to the services of the Ministry of the Interior accompanied by all the necessary documents before starting the validation procedure.

The Minister of the Interior also calls on the walis and governors to inform the Directorate of Local Authorities of any new developments in this area. He also asked them to disseminate this circular so that all the services of the wilayas and prefectures as well as the presidents of the municipal councils under their areas of influence are at the same level of information.