Moroccan activists from the pro-reform February 20 movement attempted to have an international music festival with the likes of Shakira, canceled. They argued that the festival in the country is a sign of the continued corruption and cronyism that they have been fighting against. The Colombian star and other leading international artists performed in Rabat open air venues as part of the annual Mawazin world music festival. Last year it was the religious conservatives who attacked the festival, accusing organizers of promoting homosexuality after Elton John had been invited to perform. Like last year, the concerts went on. One activist said that although music is a great unifier, “in Morocco it is a sign of how corrupt our country is. Look around and see that nothing changes year after year.” Said Gazzal, a 22-year-old university student of economics in Rabat, told Bikya Masr via telephone that he and his fellow activists are angry that these stars continue to come to the country, but do little to help the people. “Look at all these huge stars. They come here and say nice things about the people and the country, but then they just leave,” he began. “Do we need to have a natural disaster to get the stars to donate money to build schools and truly help the people. Where do they think the money goes that comes in when they arrive? To the government and its officials. We are fed up.” Ironically, it is online that that the young people are voicing their anger at the government, much like the lead-up to the Egyptian and Tunisian uprisings that ousted their leaders of decades. For now, however, the festival went on without a glitch, but Gazzal added that times are changing. “The government should be wary of our anger. We tried once and didn't get there, but it is only the beginning. They steal, they cheat, but they can't forever, just as Mubarak,” he said. BM
