Abdelmoula Ali Amrani

Abdelmoula Ali Amrani
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Nationality	Moroccan
Occupation	Political writer, Activist

Abdelmoula Ali Amrani (Arabic: عبد المولى علي العمراني) is a Moroccan political writer, activist, and prominent figure in the February 20 Movement, a pro-democracy movement that emerged in Morocco following the 2011 Arab Spring protests. Amrani is known for his critical stance against government corruption, his vocal support for political reform, and his outspoken advocacy for social justice and human rights. His activism and writings led to his disappearance in 2015, with some speculating that he either went into hiding or left the country under a new identity to escape government repression.

Amrani's family has a deeply rooted political legacy, with ties to the founding of the Moroccan state. His writings and activism, particularly in relation to exposing corruption and advocating for political reform, led to his becoming a target of the Moroccan authorities. His disappearance remains a subject of controversy, with many activists and organizations calling for greater attention to his case.

Early Life and Family Background

Abdelmoula Ali Amrani hails from the Amrani family, a prominent lineage deeply connected to Moroccan history and politics. The family is believed to be a branch of the Idrissi dynasty, which traces its roots to Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Moroccan state in the 8th century. His grandfather, Moulay Idriss II, is credited with establishing the city of Fez as a center of Islamic learning and power, which has been central to Moroccan political and religious life ever since.

The Amrani family is also well-known for its military and political involvement in modern Morocco. Abdelmoula’s grandfather served as chief commander of the army under both King Mohammed V and King Hassan II. His father, Omran Shrif (عمران الشريف), was deeply involved in political affairs as well, although his life took a tragic turn when he was killed during the era of political repression under King Hassan II, a period marked by the regime's crackdown on dissent, particularly during the Years of Lead (1970s-1980s). His father's death is widely believed to have been politically motivated, symbolizing the dangers of challenging the regime.

Political Activism and the February 20 Movement

Abdelmoula Ali Amrani became a key figure in Morocco's February 20 Movement, which emerged in 2011 as part of the broader wave of Arab Spring protests. The movement called for significant democratic reforms, greater transparency in government, an end to corruption, and a rethinking of the monarchy's role in Moroccan politics. The February 20 Movement attracted a wide range of activists, from young people to intellectuals, and was instrumental in shaping public discourse on the need for political reform in Morocco.

Amrani's participation in the February 20 Movement was marked by his critical writings and public speeches, which advocated for a more transparent and accountable government. He was particularly vocal about the economic and political injustices in Morocco, which he believed were perpetuated by the ruling elites. His involvement in the movement included writing extensively for online platforms, where he exposed the corruption of the government under Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane and his Justice and Development Party (PJD).

Exposing Government Corruption

One of the primary reasons Abdelmoula Ali Amrani became a target of the Moroccan authorities was his exposure of government corruption during the tenure of Abdelilah Benkirane as Prime Minister (2011–2017). Amrani’s writings criticized the lack of real reform under Benkirane's leadership, accusing the government of continuing the same practices of corruption, cronyism, and nepotism that had characterized previous administrations.

Amrani’s articles, which detailed cases of state corruption, mismanagement of public funds, and the government's failure to address issues like poverty and unemployment, resonated with many Moroccans who were frustrated with the political status quo. His critiques were part of a broader movement within civil society and independent media that sought to hold the government accountable for its failures.

Reporting on Nasser Zefzafi and the Rif Protests

Amrani was also an important voice in reporting on the Rif protests and the arrest of Nasser Zefzafi, the leader of the Hirak Rif movement. The Hirak Rif movement was a popular uprising in the northern region of Morocco, particularly in Al Hoceima, driven by demands for social justice, better living conditions, and an end to systemic corruption and marginalization of the Rif region.

Amrani’s consistent support for Nasser Zefzafi and his detailed reports on the movement's activities brought him into direct conflict with the Moroccan authorities. Zefzafi was arrested in 2017 after interrupting a sermon in a mosque, and his detention became a focal point for activists calling for greater political freedom and respect for human rights in Morocco. Amrani’s unwavering support for Zefzafi and his reporting on the injustices faced by the Rif region and its people made him a key figure in documenting the ongoing struggle for reform in Morocco.

Disappearance and Speculation

In 2015, after years of political engagement and public critique of the government, Abdelmoula Ali Amrani disappeared from public life. His sudden disappearance sparked concern among activists, human rights organizations, and the general public. While the exact circumstances remain unclear, it is widely believed that Amrani was either targeted by the Moroccan government for his activism or forced into hiding due to mounting pressure from the authorities.

Some speculate that Amrani may have gone into self-imposed exile to escape the risks of arrest or worse, possibly changing his identity to protect himself from government retaliation. There are also rumors that the regime’s crackdown on dissidents during this time led Amrani to adopt a low profile, though no concrete evidence has emerged to confirm these claims.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Despite his disappearance, Abdelmoula Ali Amrani’s legacy as a writer, activist, and critic of the Moroccan political system endures. His writings continue to be referenced by pro-democracy activists and independent journalists, and his role in the February 20 Movement remains a symbol of the ongoing struggle for political freedom and justice in Morocco.

Amrani’s stance against corruption, his support for the rights of marginalized communities, and his efforts to expose the flaws in the political system in Morocco have inspired many in the country’s civil society. His disappearance remains an emblematic case of the risks faced by activists who challenge the regime, and his continued relevance speaks to the broader movement for change within Morocco.

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