The Resounding Outburst of Ryad Mezzour that Scandalizes Moroccans Worldwide
The statements of Minister Ryad Mezzour on the return of Moroccans worldwide have sparked a lively controversy. His remarks, deemed disdainful by several parliamentarians, are accused of weakening the bond between the State and its highly qualified diaspora.
The Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, is facing strong criticism after his recent comments on the return of Moroccan skills to the country. He stated that this return was "natural" and not a "gift", using the Darija expression "Bzaat bladek hadi" to dismiss any idea of gratitude.
This outburst has sparked outrage from Naïma Elfathaoui, a PJD deputy, who described these statements as "clumsy, shocking and provocative". For the elected official, such official discourse lacks dignity towards a community that represents a financial and technical pillar of the nation.
Ms. Elfathaoui insisted that officials should facilitate the investments of the diaspora instead of making improvised remarks. She recalls that the royal guidelines require an integrated strategy to enhance the contributions of Moroccans worldwide to economic development.
For Aicha El Gourgi, a deputy from the socialist group, this is an "inconsiderate slip" that undermines an essential component of the nation. She emphasizes that the place of Moroccans living abroad constitutes a "red line" and that any discourse towards them must demonstrate recognition.
The elected official warns that these words risk establishing an "unjustified psychological distance" between the State and its expatriate citizens. This controversy comes as the government is multiplying efforts to attract foreign skills to support the Kingdom’s structural projects.
