Rabat's Political Maneuvering and Its Implications for Feijóo
Morocco is closely monitoring the political maneuvers of Alberto Núñez Feijóo, whom they anticipate may soon occupy the Palace of Moncloa as Spain's next Prime Minister. Since December, Rabat has issued two significant warnings regarding Spain's stance on the Sahara, cautioning that any shifts in policy could result in serious repercussions. Recently, Morocco has reiterated its discontent with Feijóo, albeit indirectly, in response to his allegations regarding the influx of irregular immigrants at the Ceuta border. The Moroccan Foreign Ministry has accused him of using the kingdom to further his internal agenda and expressed regret that historic parties have succumbed to a trap where unreasonable populism overshadows rational discourse. These developments suggest that Morocco may be preparing a "special welcome" for a new government in Spain led by the Popular Party (PP), should Feijóo ascend to power.
Ceuta, Immigration, and Political Dynamics
The Moroccan government's statement regarding Ceuta coincided with the Spanish Congress's approval of a law allowing Sahrawis born during Spain's colonial rule, along with their descendants, to acquire Spanish nationality. Feijóo's previous remarks advocating a return to Spain's former position on the Sahara and his desire for Spain to maintain a neutral stance in North Africa have raised alarm bells in Rabat. This concern was exacerbated when Feijóo visited Melilla, where members of his party engaged with representatives from the Polisario Front, further straining relations. Morocco's warnings were initially conveyed through the Moroccan digital outlet, Le360, owned by Mohamed Mounir Majidi, a close advisor to King Mohamed VI. The tone used in the publication at that time left little room for doubt about Rabat's irritation towards Feijóo, highlighting a diplomatic, media, and political offensive against Morocco led by the PP. Such actions signal a deepening rift that could have significant implications for Spain-Morocco relations should Feijóo assume leadership.
As reported by theobjective.com.
