Publication

This commentary argues that there are indications that Salafis will play a role in shaping Morocco’s future political landscape, albeit while proposing less radical objectives than what they used to profess. The trend is leading towards greater acceptance of political plurality, more cooperation with moderate Islamists, and less aggressive attitudes towards secular and Western governments. Most importantly, they are explicitly renouncing violent means in the domestic power struggle. The author argues that Moroccan Salafis have begun aiming at assuming a political role, attempting to influence policymaking, and are increasingly prepared to play by the rules of the democratic game.