Moroccans commemorate on Saturday the 69th anniversary of the historic return of the late King Mohammed V from exile, an event that represents the nation’s heroic struggle for independence.
The anniversary highlights the collective sacrifices the nation made to end the Protectorate France imposed in 1912.
King Mohammed V’s leadership played a pivotal role in the independence movement. His support for nationalist demands and his historic 1947 speech in Tangier underscored Morocco’s aspirations for self-rule. The actions provoked colonial authorities to exile the Sultan and the royal family in 1953, first to Corsica and later to Madagascar.
The exile ignited widespread outrage among Moroccans, sparking armed resistance and the formation of underground organizations dedicated to liberation.
The turning point came on November 16, 1955, when King Mohammed V returned to Morocco, heralding the end of colonial rule.
In a momentous declaration two days later, he announced the end of the Protectorate and the dawn of freedom.
With Crown Prince Hassan II by his side, the King called for a transition from the “lesser jihad” of independence to the “greater jihad” of national development.
King Mohammed V’s return laid the foundation for a new era of unity. Under King Hassan II, Morocco continued its pursuit of territorial integrity, culminating in the Green March of 1975, which led to the recovery of the southern provinces.