Police using water cannons to disperse health professionals protest
Widespread outrage erupted on social media after police dispersed a protest by health professionals in Rabat using water cannons. The demonstrators were marching towards parliament to protest the government’s failure to honor a prior agreement with the Ministry of Health when they were met with force. Videos shared online showed chaotic scenes as police used water cannons against the medical professionals, leading to multiple arrests.
The protest was in response to the government not fulfilling its promises outlined in the signed agreement with the Ministry of Health, which led to the unions announcing a return to protests and the implementation of a previously suspended action plan. The health sector unions have criticized the government for proceeding with health-related decrees without their consultation, calling it authoritarian behavior that puts public health at risk.
The National Coordination of health unions organized a nationwide strike from July 9 to 11 and plans to continue striking to demand full implementation of the signed agreement provisions. Additionally, medical and pharmacy students have joined in the protest by boycotting training and exams over the government’s decision to shorten the duration of studies.
The unions have planned further strikes and boycotts of health programs in the coming days to press their demands and ensure the government respects their rights as health professionals. The crackdown on the protest in Rabat has sparked a wave of condemnation on social media, with many questioning the authorities’ response to peaceful demonstrations.
