Abu Bakr Azaitar: A Philanthropic Gesture in Ceuta
Abu Bakr Azaitar, a former mixed martial arts fighter and close associate of King Mohammed VI of Morocco, has recently attracted public attention following a video of him distributing hamburgers to illegal immigrants at a McDonald's in Ceuta. The footage, which emerged on social media via Zoom Fnideq—a local news outlet—has sparked a mix of admiration and skepticism among viewers. While some applaud Azaitar's charitable actions, others perceive them as a calculated move to gain media attention.
Located in the bustling Poblado Marinero, the only McDonald's in Ceuta serves as a backdrop for this unusual scene. Azaitar reportedly traveled from Rincón (M'diq), a favored summer retreat of the Moroccan king, to engage in this act of goodwill. The 40-year-old Azaitar, who was born in Cologne, Germany, alongside his twin brother Omar and younger brother Ottman, has German citizenship, which affords him the freedom to travel across borders with ease.
The Dual Nature of Public Perception
While the video has garnered significant attention, journalist Ignacio Cembrero suggests that Azaitar's presence in Ceuta may be more about posturing than genuine altruism. Despite his close ties to the Moroccan royal family, Azaitar is not universally beloved in Morocco. His penchant for flaunting a lavish lifestyle, including expensive gifts from the king such as luxury watches and cars, has drawn criticism. Azaitar's recent activities, including distributing bottled water to migrants at the border, seem to align with a newfound image of a Robin Hood, albeit one that some view with skepticism.
The Azaitar brothers have enjoyed a strong relationship with King Mohammed VI since their meeting at the royal palace in Rabat on April 20, 2018. The king congratulated them on their sports achievements, including Ottman's world championship title in mixed martial arts and Abu Bakr's entry into the prestigious Ultimate Fighting Championship. Since then, they have traveled extensively with the king, showcasing their camaraderie on social media platforms. Abu Azaitar's Instagram, which boasts 1.9 million followers, frequently features images of him enjoying a luxurious lifestyle, supporting the Moroccan national football team, and attending extravagant parties.
As reported by eldebate.com.
