BACKGROUND MOROCCAN SULTANS

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP80R01443R000200320002-4
• Release Decision: RIFPUB
• Original Classification: S
• Document Page Count: 4
• Document Creation Date: December 9, 2016
• Document Release Date: December 7, 1998
• Sequence Number: 2
• Publication Date: June 17, 1954
• Content Type: BRIEF

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BACKGROUND
MOROCCAN SULTANS
I. Ex-sultan: Sidi Mohkmed ben Youssef
(Mohammed V)
A. To throne age 16 (November 1927),
selected for youth in hope pliable.
1. After World War II, started assert
independence, repeatedly tangled with
French over proposed "reforms."
Visualizes self as leader Arab world
in northwest Africa; in 1947 made
ringing defense of Arab League.
2. Is virtual but not nominal head
Istiglal, principal Moroccan
nationalist party: has worked closely
with party.: leaders.
3. Advocates nationalist moderation,
genuinely concerned people's welfare,
betterment education, living
conditions.
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B. Forcibly deposed (20 August 1953) for
blocking French "reforms French flew
him and entourage of 35 to-'Corsica.
1. in January 1954 (height of Spanish
criticism French Moroccan policy)
French flew him to Madagascar.
Expected then final destination would
be even more remote (New Caledonia or
p r)haps Tahiti).
2. Now rumored he may be allowed come
to France.
3. At present, remains Madagascar with
wives, two sons, several daughters,
household servants. French, in effort
discredit, frequently leak false
rumors concubines in entourage.
C. Has.refused abdicate formally.
1. French recently obtained his promise
neither he nor sons would engage in
politics.
2. However, French efforts undermine his
popularit in Morocco not successful.
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II. Present sultan: Sidi Mohamed ben Moulay
Arafa (Mohammed VI).
A. Selected by French to replace ben Youssef
1.~.A cousin of ex-sultan; colorless old
man, some 70 years old.
2. Is wealthy landowner, completely non
political, regarded as "good simple
man," reported unable speak French.
3. Has repeatedly voicdd desire abdicate,!
return to quiet life in Fez.
B. French dissatisfied with Arafa; although
pliable, lacks ex-sultan's popularity,
widespread respect.
1. Moroccans view him as French puppet.
Already two assassination attempts
(latter, March 1954, wounding him
slightly).
2. Official tour Morocco f 'ebruary-March
1954) met only sparse sullen crowds,
cold receptions. Has not left palace
in Rabat since.
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In. possible successors:
A. Numerous among many members reigning
Alaouite dynasty.* Most frequently
mentioned is Prince Moulay Abdullah,
18-year-old second son ex-sultan.
1. French reportedly making unofficial
feelers on this. (Denied by Foreign
Ministry)
2. While Moroccan nationalists
primarily want ex-sultan back,
probably would accept son, if assured
this approved by ex-sultan.
* Selection made by French in practice;
rubber-stamped by college of native religious
leaders.
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