Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto in Morocco
Morocco marks the Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto on January 11. It recalls the manifesto presented in 1944, which the national archives describe as a turning point in the independence movement and a demand for freedom and independence.[1][2]
The 1944 manifesto
The anniversary is tied to the presentation of the Independence Manifesto on January 11, 1944. Morocco’s national archives describe it as a key stage in the national movement, when demands for freedom and independence became explicit and organized.[1]
The archives place the manifesto under the leadership of Sultan Mohammed ben Youssef, also known as Mohammed V. Their account connects the event with the Alawite Throne and the Moroccan people’s struggle for independence.[1]
Why the date matters
The anniversary recalls a particular moment in Morocco’s national history: the organized demand for freedom and independence. It is distinct from Morocco’s Independence Day, which the government lists separately on November 18.[1][2]
The holiday’s official name refers to the manifesto’s presentation, rather than to the later Independence Day. Morocco’s government lists it among the country’s national holidays.[2]
A public holiday in Morocco
A Moroccan decree lists the commemoration of the presentation of the Independence Manifesto on January 11 as a paid holiday each year for public administrations, public establishments and concessionary services. The administration ministry says work in state and local administrations is suspended on the national and religious holidays set by that decree.[3][4]
The decree specifies one day for the holiday. Its listed provision gives January 11 as the date and does not set out an automatic replacement day when it falls on a weekend.[3]
Commemoration and practical planning
The national archives describe commemorating the anniversary by highlighting documents from their collections that trace the event.[1]
People planning errands should expect state and local administration offices to be closed for the holiday. Check opening arrangements with banks, schools, shops, restaurants or transport providers before travelling or making plans.[3][4]
Frequently asked questions
When is the Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto?
Is it a day off?
Does the holiday move when January 11 falls on a weekend?
The decree lists January 11 as the holiday and does not specify an automatic replacement day in that provision.[3]
Sources and references
Sources used for Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto in Morocco:
- Archives du Maroc célèbre la commémoration de la présentation du Manifeste de l’Indépendance- Archives du Maroc
- National and religious holidays and their meanings- Maroc.ma
- Décret n° 2-77-169 du 9 rebia I 1397 (28 février 1977) fixant la liste des jours fériés chômés dans les administrations publiques, établissements publics et services concédés.- Ministère de la Transition Numérique et de la Réforme de l’Administration
- Horaires de travail et jours fériés- Ministère de la Transition Numérique et de la Réforme de l’Administration