Between Celebrating the Amazigh New Year and Jamal Soussi’s Struggle: Can Identity Become a Curse?
As Moroccans celebrate the Amazigh New Year, Id Yennayer, a symbol of pride in identity and heritage, stories emerge in the background that put this identity to the test. The story of journalist and sports activist Jamal Soussi is one such narrative that links the fight for justice to the exclusion he faces due to his origins and identity.
The Symbolism of Celebration and the Dimensions of Exclusion
Id Yennayer is not just a traditional occasion but a celebration of the cultural and historical depth of Amazigh identity. However, how can we promote Amazigh identity when prominent talents like Jamal Soussi are excluded and targeted due to their roots? Is it not ironic that the celebration of identity masks forms of marginalization?
When Identity Becomes an Obstacle
Jamal Soussi, who has contributed to the development of Moroccan sports and founded the Royal Federation for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts, faces an open war waged by influential parties claiming to act on “higher instructions.” These groups have not only targeted him personally but also hindered his sports project, which was established in full compliance with national laws.
Soussi recounts a shocking incident where a former Minister of Youth and Sports told him: “As long as I live, you will not be the president of a royal federation as a Soussi.” This statement encapsulates a struggle that extends beyond Soussi, affecting everyone who aspires to achieve their dreams in a country that champions slogans of justice and equality.
Can Amazigh identity be an obstacle to ambition? How can a country marginalize its citizens instead of supporting them?
A War on Sports and Dreams
The Royal Federation founded by Soussi, instead of receiving the necessary support, faced a series of administrative and legal obstacles. Although the federation met all legal requirements under Law 30/09, the relevant authorities treated this achievement with contempt and disregard.
What message does this treatment send to Moroccan youth? How can Morocco progress if it marginalizes its talents and stifles their ambitions?
A Call for Royal Intervention
Despite official documents and irrefutable evidence presented by Soussi, including ministerial decrees issued under ratified laws and acknowledgments by the previous ministry of his work’s legitimacy STATU FRMJJB 02, the question remains: Will the official authorities launch a fair and transparent investigation? Will the responsible institutions intervene to end this systematic marginalization?
More importantly, will this issue reach the Royal Palace, especially when those marginalizing Jamal Soussi claim to act under “royal instructions”? Will we witness genuine action in favor of justice and a correction of this situation, or will this case join the list of unresolved issues?
A National, Not Individual, Issue
The case of Jamal Soussi is not just a personal story but a matter that touches on the values and principles every Moroccan citizen aspires to. It is a question of justice, identity, and dignity.
Will the voice of justice be heard in this case? Will the authorities act to restore fairness to a national talent who has served Moroccan sports and culture?
This is a moment for reflection and accountability because the future of a nation is not built on exclusion but on embracing and supporting its talents.
