Hundreds of people have once again taken to the streets of the Moroccan capital Rabat to protest against corruption and call for economic and political reforms.

Around 500 demonstrators took part in the demonstration, which was organized by the February 20 Youth Movement, a group largely consisting of students and workers, AFP reported on Sunday.

Chanting slogans against King Mohammed VI, the demonstrators called for deeper political reforms and urged the country’s authorities to release political prisoners. They also denounced rising food prices and unemployment.

Moroccans have been engaged in weekly protests despite King Mohammed VI's announcement of more reforms, which give more power to Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane but leave the king with a veto power over most governmental decisions.


Moroccans say the parliamentary polls last November failed to display true democratic reforms and that the US-backed ruling monarchy is not committed to real changes. The Justice and Development Party won the most seats and formed a coalition government.

The country has been facing serious economic troubles over the past few years, with high unemployment and rising levels of poverty.
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