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As the upcoming elections approach, a renewed debate has ignited between the Justice and Spirituality Movement and the Justice and Development Party regarding the value of electoral participation. Leaders from both groups have expressed sharply differing opinions on political engagement and reform.
In an interview with the Justice and Spirituality Movement's website, Secretary-General Mohamed Abbadi revisited the February 20 Movement, which rose during the 2011 wave of protests across the Arab world. He noted that the movement initially questioned whether Morocco's constitutional amendments could achieve the democratic transition demanded by the public.
Abbadi attributed this early position to the movement’s extensive experience in interpreting state actions and policies. He argued that genuine reform is not about statements or constitutional texts but about their tangible impact and the political will to implement practices that protect rights and freedoms.
He also highlighted an open letter sent by the movement to the Unity and Reform Movement and the Justice and Development Party after the latter's 2011 electoral victory and government formation. Abbadi claimed the movement believed that joining the government within the current political framework would not allow the party to enact meaningful reforms or address corruption and authoritarianism, restricting change to minor administrative matters.
Abbadi asserted that the Justice and Development Party’s governance did not lead to significant national changes, emphasizing that genuine reform hinges on authentic political will enabling meaningful public involvement and establishing a new state-society relationship.
Benkirane's Response
Justice and Development Party Secretary-General Abdelilah Benkirane was quick to respond. In his speech at the opening session of the "Lamp" Women’s Organization forum, he claimed that the passage of time validated their governance, not deemed it a failure.
Benkirane respectfully addressed Mohamed Abbadi as a “respected sheikh” and countered: «No, professor, time has shown we were correct. You and your movement should offer an alternative proposal clearly and openly.»
He continued: «No, professor, you're mistaken. If you have insights, share them. Politically, you’re absent except during political events: appearing and disappearing.»
Benkirane concluded with: «I say this with fraternity, affection, and respect. May God bless Abdessalam Yassine. If you have another proposal, present it to Moroccans and gauge their response. Until then, we disregard this talk and continue on our path.»
This clash between the two Islamist organizations spilled onto social media, with supporters trading barbs. Some defended electoral participation as a reform pathway, while others argued it’s futile under current conditions.
