Removing religious phrases from funeral transport vehicles in Morocco sparks wide controversy
A decision by the Moroccan Interior Ministry to eliminate religious phrases from funeral vehicles has provoked significant debate in the country.
A recent directive from the Moroccan Interior Ministry has mandated the removal of religious expressions from vehicles used for transporting the deceased, citing a need for 'religious neutrality.' This decision, articulated through a joint decree from the Ministers of Interior and Health, permits only the phrase 'funeral transport' alongside green strips on the sides of the vehicles. Such regulations have become the focal point of critical discussions across Moroccan society, from grassroots protests to vibrant discussions on social media platforms.
Critics of the decision argue that removing phrases such as 'There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger' or 'Every soul will taste death' undermines deeply rooted religious sentiments and cultural practices. They contend that these expressions are not merely decorative but hold significant emotional weight, representing sacred moments of goodbye in an Islamic context. Supporters, however, may argue that the move aims to promote secularism and ensure an inclusive approach for citizens of diverse beliefs in a multicultural society.
The debate has revealed a divide within Moroccan society, with some viewing the ban as an unwarranted affront to cultural identity and religious heritage. As the discussions unfold, they highlight the ongoing struggle between tradition and modernity in Morocco, raising questions about the role of religion in public life and the extent to which the state should involve itself in personal and communal expressions of faith.