Moroccan opposition criticizes government’s promotional video as electoral exploitation

A promotional video broadcast on Morocco's second national television channel (2M) and online, titled «Significant Government Achievements Made to Reach the Morocco We Want by 2030, and Our Ambition is Even Greater», has sparked criticism from the opposition. Rachid Hamouni, a Progress and Socialism Party MP, argued that the video represents political exploitation of public resources for electoral purposes.

In a written question submitted to parliament, the MP argued that the video raises concerns about its deliberate and misleading fusion of an institutional video meant to serve public interest with promotional advertising. Hamouni pointed out that the video includes references to national symbols and common national values, but in a context designed to sway public opinion in favor of the current government’s continuation in the upcoming elections. He stated, «The video implicitly urges the audience to endorse the idea of the government’s continuation, essentially winning the upcoming elections, under the guise of aspiring to lead a 2030 World Cup government».

The MP argued that the video does not align with the values and principles that the public audiovisual sector is meant to uphold, including pluralism, neutrality, and objectivity, especially in the context of electoral competition. Hamouni also questioned whether the video complies with laws related to political advertising, including Law 77.03 on audiovisual communication, and the provisions on prohibited advertising and false claims that could mislead consumers.

Furthermore, Hamouni called for transparency regarding the funding for the production of this promotional video, stating, «The available data (which you can confirm or deny) suggests it was funded by public money». He demanded disclosure of the amounts paid, the parties involved in the production, and how well they align with the terms of the agreements. Hamouni emphasized that providing audiovisual materials with neutrality and objectivity is a duty of public institutions and should be free from any political or electoral exploitation.