Moroccans protest mass vaccination rules; some skirmishes

Demonstrators took to the streets in cities around Morocco to protest the country’s decision to require COVID-19 vaccination passes to be allowed to work and access public venues

RABAT, Morocco -- Demonstrators took to the streets in cities around Morocco on Wednesday, some clashing with police as they denounced the country’s decision to require coronavirus vaccination passes to be allowed to work and enter public venues.

The decision came into effect Oct. 21 and stipulates that Moroccans must provide proof of vaccination in order to enter their workplaces. In a statement, the government has said employers have “direct legal responsibility” to enforce the decision.

The pass is also required to access indoor services such as restaurants and banks as well as domestic and international travel.

The North African kingdom of 36 million people has Africa’s highest vaccination rate, with more than 50% of the population fully inoculated. Earlier this month, the government also started administering booster shots.