Moroccan Retirees Advocate for Enhanced Pension Payments
The Moroccan network of retirement bodies, known as RéMOR, which encompasses various sectoral organizations, has expressed appreciation for the new government's commitment to raise minimum pensions. However, they have raised concerns over the proposed phased approach to implementing these changes. Currently, the minimum pension stands at approximately 1000 dirhams, which is set to increase to 1700 dirhams starting January 1, 2027, and ultimately reach 3000 dirhams in subsequent phases. Fawzi Laghja, Minister of Economy and Finance, announced this gradual adjustment, emphasizing the government's commitment to improving the welfare of retirees.
In response, Arouj Hamadi, President of the National Association of Educational Administration Retirees, voiced strong objections to the gradual increase. He highlighted the dire financial circumstances retirees face, exacerbated by soaring prices and inflation, which necessitate a more immediate and substantial increase in pensions. Hamadi stated that the current pension levels are insufficient to meet the basic living needs and healthcare expenses for retirees and their families.
The RéMOR network has also emphasized the need for clarity regarding the full retention of pension payments for widows, as part of the proposed reforms. They criticized the government for neglecting a large segment of retirees and their beneficiaries, which has led to a continuous freeze on pensions for over three decades. They argue that the government has failed to address the ongoing decline in purchasing power due to rising living costs and healthcare expenses.
In their demands, the network urged the government to fulfill their request for an immediate pension increase of 2000 dirhams and to establish a regular mechanism for reviewing pension amounts in relation to living costs. Hamadi reiterated the retirees’ insistence on immediate action, as the current pensions do not adequately cover essential household expenses, including medication costs.
Furthermore, Lahcen Momoosh, Secretary General of the Union of Retired Educators in Morocco, warned that the gradual increase strategy could diminish the value of the reforms. He argued that setting the minimum pension at 3000 dirhams by 2030 would not align with the economic realities and living conditions expected in Morocco at that time. Momoosh called for an immediate implementation of the 3000 dirham minimum pension, stressing that the existing threshold fails to protect retirees’ purchasing power and does not meet the needs of their families.
The network has reiterated its commitment to improving retirees’ living conditions, which they believe cannot be achieved without an immediate pension increase of at least 2000 dirhams. They also called for better social services for retirees at reasonable costs, particularly in healthcare, recreation, and transportation.
Finally, the RéMOR network has reaffirmed its dedication to initiating a serious and regular social dialogue with agencies representing retirees, aiming to resolve outstanding issues and implement prior agreements, including addressing the grievances of those excluded from promotions to the superior grade, as outlined in the April 26, 2011 agreement.
As reported by hespress.com.
