Individuals close to the Chaouen province administration have accused a man who kissed the hand of the provincial governor, Mohamed Alami, of having “psychological disorder,” attempting to clarify and justify a scene that sparked controversy in Morocco.
A video emerged showing the individual kissing Alami’s hand during the inauguration of several projects in the region, coinciding with the Throne Day celebrations. Although the governor was surprised by the man’s reaction, he did not take immediate action to reduce the impact of the scene.
Media outlets in Chaouen, along with some activists and elected officials, released a simultaneous “clarification.” In their statement, they attributed the man’s actions to “psychological disorder,” stating that the governor was taken aback and that the incident was not premeditated.
According to the clarification, “the governor rejected such behavior at the time and directly addressed the individual, asking why he did that. He emphasized that such actions do not reflect the traditions of local administration in dealing with citizens and do not align with his approach, which is based on mutual respect and dignity for all.”
The source concluded that “the provincial governor does not accept such behavior and does not encourage it in any form. It was noted that the circulated image was taken out of its true context and was misused by some individuals.”
The accusation of psychological disorder provoked outrage among the local population, who condemned the insult to the individual. There was astonishment regarding how the man, if truly unwell, was allowed to meet the governor. Residents believed those who attempted to clarify the situation worsened it.
In response to the backlash, the narrative shifted from “psychological disorder” to “customs, traditions, and spontaneous behavior.”
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