The withdrawal of the Istiqlal party (PI) from the government is a decision taken in the general interest of the homeland and the Moroccan people, estimated the party's secretary general, Hamid Chabat, on Sunday in Meknes.

Speaking during a meeting organised by the party's section in Meknes, Mr. Chabat indicated that this decision, taken by the national council on the basis of Article 42 of the Constitution, is the result of the current economic situation which calls for an urgent cabinet reshuffle, recalling that he had sent two memorandums on this subject to the head of government who "did not give them any attention".

"Through this decision, we are not looking for more seats or positions but rather the stability of our country and the peace of mind of our people," assured Mr. Chabat, stressing the need to restore the confidence of Moroccans in political parties and the government.

The secretary general of the PI also called for the implementation of the minutes dated 20 July 2011 relating to the direct integration without competition of unemployed graduates into the civil service, in accordance with the principle of the continuity of the State.n