Diplomatic Defeat for Morocco at the African Union: A Shameful Concealment of a Crushing Failure Against Algeria

Morocco has just experienced a significant setback within the African Union (AU), yet a palpable unease surrounds this diplomatic episode. Why this clumsy attempt to conceal a fact known to all? In the election for a seat on the AU's Peace and Security Council (PSC), Morocco was soundly defeated by Algeria, which secured 30 votes compared to only 17 for the Cherifian Kingdom.

A Diplomatic Blow Dealt by Algeria

Despite sustained efforts and an expensive diplomatic campaign, Morocco faced a massive rejection. The sixth round of voting was decisive: Algeria, backed by its historical commitment and influence in Africa, won hands down. This result reflects a profound shift in how African states perceive Morocco, as its methods and ambitions are increasingly questioned.

Far from being a driving force for unity and progress in Africa, Morocco has focused its efforts on one obsession: countering Algeria. Its primary objective is not to build a strong and united Africa but to systematically sabotage Algerian initiatives. This strategy has reached its limits, and the results speak for themselves.

The Bribery Scandal: An Open Secret in the AU

In the corridors of the African Union, Moroccan bribery is a widely discussed topic. Several diplomats no longer hesitate to openly denounce these practices, labeling them as pure and simple corruption. However, Morocco's attempt to buy support was not enough to mask a clear reality: it does not enjoy the trust of African countries.

The few votes Morocco managed to secure came at the cost of blatant financial largesse, but even that was insufficient to change the tide. This confirms a major shift: most African nations are no longer willing to be dictated to through opaque dealings and unscrupulous influence strategies.

Morocco’s Growing Isolation Within the AU

Since rejoining the AU in 2017 with grand ambitions, Morocco has struggled to establish itself as a credible and influential player. Unlike Algeria, whose commitment to African causes is widely recognized and respected, Morocco finds itself increasingly isolated.

Rather than advancing solid political agendas and initiatives beneficial to Africa, Morocco has locked itself into a sterile position: blocking Algeria’s progress. Not only has this approach failed, but it has also strengthened Algeria’s position, which is seen as a serious and committed actor for peace and security on the continent.

An Irreversible Dynamic Against Morocco

The results of this election highlight a reality that Morocco refuses to acknowledge: Africa is no longer deceived. The growing distrust of African states toward Morocco shows that its methods no longer work. Its isolation within the AU is deepening, while Algeria consolidates its leadership.

In response to this crushing defeat, Morocco has chosen silence and embarrassment. Yet, this episode is far from trivial: it marks a turning point in the power dynamics within the African Union. The future could bring even more setbacks for Morocco if it does not rethink its strategy from the ground up.