In Bouznika, where the remaining supporters of the Justice and Development Party gathered under the banner of “struggling for the credibility of democratic choice and the dignity of citizens,” it became evident that the party is facing its toughest battle: the battle for survival.
Abdelilah Benkirane’s speech, wrapped in heartfelt emotion and the bitterness of loss, revealed that the party is still a prisoner of its pain more than it is ready to boldly open a new chapter. In an era where political maps have shifted and public trust has wavered, Benkirane continued to speak the language of the past, betting on nostalgia while postponing the answer to the most crucial question: What’s next?
At the Moulay Rachid Youth and Childhood Complex in Bouznika, Benkirane launched his fiery address at the opening of the party’s ninth national conference, recounting a long journey of struggle and tribulations, reaffirming that the Justice and Development Party will never abandon its message, no matter how fierce the storms become.
His speech, which ignited the emotions of those present, appeared more as a restoration of the party’s spirit than a presentation of a new political vision. Benkirane relied on memories of victimhood and victory, insisting that the party will continue to defend democracy, social justice, and national dignity, regardless of the costs.
However, the repeated references to wounds and political conspiracies that weakened the party did not conceal the lack of profound answers regarding the rupture with broad sectors of voters. The mention of the recent elections as a “harsh station” without bold criticism of the previous government’s performance seemed more akin to an attempt to sell victimhood than to provide a responsible political review.
Benkirane emphasized the party’s adherence to its traditional principles, foremost of which is respect for the monarchy and the constitution, and called on his supporters to return to the concerns of citizens, stating that victory begins in the streets and fields. Yet this call, despite its apparent sincerity, felt delayed, as if the party were striving to reclaim a bygone era without acknowledging that the political and social reality has changed significantly.
Amidst thunderous applause and supportive chants, Benkirane concluded his speech with a moving plea: “We are not those who flee at the first storm… We are the children of this nation, and we will continue to carry its concerns in our hearts until our last breath!”
However, an emotional speech alone, no matter how genuine and warm, is no longer sufficient to convince an audience wearied by empty promises and failed experiences. The bet on “returning to the people” may seem noble on the surface, but it poses a painful question: Where was the party when those concerns accumulated and turned into disappointments?
The Bouznika conference demonstrated that the Justice and Development Party has a strong memory of its wounds, but it did not provide a clear vision for overcoming them. Clinging to principles is commendable, but without explicit self-criticism and learning from past lessons, the storm will remain stronger than the ship, no matter how firm the captain is.
Today, citizens do not await calls for resistance; they expect effective policies that translate into tangible reality. Perhaps the real challenge facing the party is convincing the public that it is capable of being more than just a mournful witness to its own decline.
