Uproar in Morocco Over Minister Leila Benali and Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest's Infamous Kiss
All of Morocco is in shock over the infamous kiss between our minister Leila Benali and Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest. This is considered one of the biggest scandals so far. Not only is a public kiss inappropriate, but having such a scandal published by international media is another major issue. We Moroccans tend to handle our affairs discreetly, striving to maintain an immaculate image of our country—though one might wonder if such an image truly exists. If a Moroccan had published the picture, they would have faced severe consequences, but since it was done by foreigners, particularly those who are blond with blue eyes, we are left powerless. Aren't we all desperately seeking that coveted visa that foreigners grant us, despite the challenges in obtaining it?
Although I am not specialized in political matters, here is the translation of an article by my colleague, a talented Moroccan journalist. I believe the article is fair. We are both open-minded and don't care about the PDA (public display of affection) kiss. However, when the matter involves a conflict of interest and a deal signed by the Australian billionaire's company, which operates in energy and green hydrogen, with the OCP Group (OCP S.A.)—a state-owned company specializing in mining phosphate rock, manufacturing phosphoric acid, and producing fertilizers—it must be addressed, as this is highly suspicious, to say the least:
The Leila Benali Scandal: Silence Normalizes Corruption ( By Moroccan journalist Nora Fouari)
Today (Monday), May 27, 2024, public opinion was surprised by the "news" of a scandal reported by Australian and British media about a relationship between Energy Minister Leila Benali and Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest, along with the circulation of intimate photos allegedly showing them kissing in public in the French capital, Paris.
The minister's private life is not subject to public scrutiny. However, given her role as a public figure representing His Majesty's government, it is inappropriate for her to display affection publicly. Particularly when her actions involve a potential conflict of interest, such as a deal signed between the Australian billionaire's company, specializing in energy and green hydrogen, and The OCP Group (OCP S.A.), a state-owned enterprise engaged in phosphate mining, phosphoric acid production, and fertilizer manufacturing. This situation demands attention as it raises concerns of clear corruption.
As of the composition of these lines, Minister Leila Benali has not issued an official statement or communiqué, except for an unclear statement she mentioned in front of the camera of "Chouf TV" about a conspiracy against her for a year, without explaining any details. The government has also not provided any clarification about the news and photos, preferring the power of silence, waiting for a certain "excuse" to cover up this global "scandal" that has damaged the country's credibility, interests, and image before international public opinion.
Regardless of the veracity of the news or the authenticity of the photos attributed to the minister, Leila Benali should request to be relieved of her duties immediately, until an investigation is opened into the case. The Prime Minister should assume responsibility in the matter, given that the minister is part of his cabinet, and because the matter is related to a clearly defined financial crime.
What is required today is to open a judicial investigation, under the supervision of the public prosecution, into the reported conflict of interest in the deal between the minister's lover and the Office Chérif des Phosphates, as is done in democratic countries that respect their citizens. All those proven to be involved in this scandal should be referred to trial, responsibilities and sanctions should be determined, because the matter concerns the interests of the country. Morally, the deal should be canceled and reconsidered in case of conviction. However, remaining silent as part of an ostrich policy, waiting for the situation to "cool down" and for Moroccans to forget what happened, is nothing but a premeditated desire to normalize government corruption, which has become a stench in the nostrils.
By Simo Ben (Simo Benbachir)
