Nizar Baraka's Vision for Economic Revival in Fes
Nizar Baraka, the Secretary-General of the Istiqlal Party, recently pledged during a large communication gathering in the city of Fes to launch a comprehensive battle against poverty, precariousness, and the rising cost of living. He presented a holistic vision aimed at restoring the economic and industrial attractiveness of the scientific capital, focusing on combating the greed of intermediaries and modifying social support conditions. Baraka emphasized that the historical heritage of Fes imposes a dual commitment on the party to honor its past while leading a struggle to liberate citizens from social and material constraints.
Baraka reiterated the deep-rooted relationship between the Istiqlal Party and the city of Fes and its residents, noting that it is the birthplace of the national movement. He highlighted the city's rich national heritage, tracing from the late leader Allal El Fassi to the generations of leaders who fought for the liberation of the nation. The significant turnout at the event, according to Baraka, reflects the trust of Fassi residents in the party's project and electoral program.
Addressing the Challenges of Rising Living Costs
In his speech, Baraka dedicated a substantial portion of his address to the escalating cost of living and the significant challenges now weighing heavily on Moroccan citizens. He underscored that the increased prices of food products are placing a substantial burden on Moroccan families, even in light of achievements made during the previous government term, which he noted remain insufficient as long as the price difference between what farmers receive and what consumers pay is siphoned off by intermediaries.
To combat rising prices and the greed of intermediaries and speculators, Baraka proposed establishing distribution companies that would purchase products directly from farmers and make them available to consumers at reasonable prices. He also suggested regulating exports to ensure that national market needs are met first, thereby curbing price hikes.
Baraka further advocated for a review of the criteria for direct social support eligibility, ensuring that families remain stable and are not deprived of aid for formal reasons. He emphasized that the employment of one child in the labor market should not disqualify parents from receiving support, aiming to preserve family unity and encourage youth employment.
Moreover, Baraka stressed that social support alone is insufficient to improve citizens' living conditions. He indicated that the Istiqlal Party's program adopts a comprehensive approach aimed at supporting all families by promoting the training of women and youth and enabling them to market their products via digital platforms. This initiative aims for a viable exit from poverty within five years, aligned with principles of economic and social equity and equal opportunities.
Regarding the city of Fes, Baraka noted that restoring its economic appeal requires first rebuilding investors' trust. He expressed his intention to leverage infrastructure projects to return the city to its historical position as a meeting point between the north and south and the east and west of the country. Additionally, Fes's hosting of the 2030 World Cup matches will provide a significant opportunity to accelerate development efforts.
In discussing familial matters, Baraka reaffirmed the party’s commitment to Moroccan families and the value system, particularly concerning the decline in marriage rates, the drop in birth rates, and the rise in divorce rates. He stated that protecting families and childhood, maintaining intergenerational connections, and instilling values of solidarity, respect, responsibility, work, and innovation will remain the pillars of the party’s approach.
Baraka proposed a regional program to support families, enhancing family mediation within courts, involving notaries in awareness campaigns, and training those about to marry on their rights and responsibilities, alongside providing financial support for youth under thirty who are preparing for marriage.
In conclusion, Nizar Baraka emphasized that Fes holds a special place in the heart of the Istiqlal Party due to its historical legacy. He firmly rejected the use of this history as an electoral asset, viewing it instead as a strong motivation for the party to blend respect for the past with a commitment to building the future and tackling the new battles against poverty, precariousness, and the challenges of housing, education, and health.
As reported by madar21.com.
