Istiqlal Party Fraying at the Seams: Ministers’ Perceived Arrogance Fuels Internal Rift
Tensions within Morocco’s Istiqlal Party are reaching a boiling point, with internal disagreements threatening the party’s cohesion. A recent weekly meeting of the Istiqlal parliamentary group revealed deep-seated frustration among party members, sparked by what some perceive as arrogance from Istiqlal ministers. Several members have walked out of meetings and threatened further boycotts if party leader Nizar Baraka doesn’t intervene.
At the heart of the discontent lies a perceived disconnect between the party’s ministers and its representatives in parliament. Rank-and-file members accuse certain ministers, most notably Minister of Industry and Trade Ryad Mezzour, of being unresponsive to their concerns and requests. They argue that these ministers, despite owing their positions in part to the support of these very representatives, have become aloof and dismissive. This perceived lack of respect has fueled resentment and eroded trust within the party.
The situation escalated when Mezzour reportedly told the parliamentary group, “You didn’t appoint me minister,” a statement that further inflamed tensions. This remark, perceived as dismissive and disrespectful, led to a heated exchange and the subsequent withdrawal of MP El Ayachi El Ferfar from future meetings. This incident highlights the growing divide between the party’s leadership and its grassroots members.
The criticism isn’t limited to individual ministers. Baraka himself is facing accusations of failing to address the concerns of the parliamentary group and neglecting coordination on local issues, particularly those related to the Ministry of Equipment and Water. Prominent MPs, including Idriss Saour El Mansouri, Lahcen El Amoud, and Abdelmonem El Fattahi, have voiced their concerns, describing the internal situation as “ominous” and calling for a closed-door meeting with Baraka to clear the air. This lack of communication and coordination is reminiscent of internal struggles faced by other political parties globally, often leading to fractured alliances and diminished public trust. [Link to a relevant article about intra-party conflicts, if available]
Adding fuel to the fire is the perceived contrast between the Istiqlal Party’s internal struggles and the seemingly smoother operations of other parties in the governing coalition, such as the National Rally of Independents (RNI) and the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM). MPs like Mohamed El Hafez and Ahmed El Alem have pointed to the apparent coordination between ministers and representatives in these parties as a stark contrast to the disunity within their own ranks. This comparison further underscores the perceived failings of the Istiqlal leadership and adds to the pressure on Baraka to address the growing crisis.
The escalating tensions within the Istiqlal Party raise concerns about its future stability and effectiveness. If Baraka fails to intervene and bridge the divide between the ministers and the parliamentary group, the internal rift could deepen, potentially leading to further fragmentation and weakening the party’s overall political influence. This internal strife comes at a crucial time for Morocco, as the country navigates complex economic and social challenges. A strong and unified Istiqlal Party is essential for effective governance and the advancement of the nation’s interests. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Baraka can successfully navigate these internal challenges and restore unity within the party.
Keywords: Morocco, Istiqlal Party, Nizar Baraka, Ryad Mezzour, political infighting, internal conflict, government coalition, Moroccan politics, parliamentary group, Ministry of Industry and Trade, Ministry of Equipment and Water.
