BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | November 20th, 2024 — A recent leaked image of King Mohammed VI of Morocco, captured while he was strolling through a shopping center in Paris, has ignited significant controversy, drawing attention not only to his attire but also to his apparent health and mental state. The photo, shared by Spanish journalist Ignacio Samperero, shows the Moroccan monarch dressed in an unconventional and strikingly youthful outfit that many observers find unbecoming of a royal figure.
The image, taken over the past weekend, features the king in torn jeans and mismatched, vibrant fabric patches—an ensemble that one would expect from a teenager rather than a head of state. This odd fashion choice has led to widespread speculation about the psychological state of the Moroccan king, with some commentators suggesting that such attire could be a sign of personal distress or a deeper emotional crisis. The lack of coherence in his outfit, paired with his unkempt appearance, makes it difficult to immediately recognize the figure in the photo, had it not been for his entourage of security personnel, who are visible in the background, discreetly monitoring his every move.
In his comment on the photograph, Samperero wrote: “King Mohammed VI was seen shopping in one of Paris’s major department stores this weekend. The trend of stained and mismatched clothing seems to have caught on. He began his vacation in Paris on November 7th and had not been seen walking around the city for quite some time.”
Health Concerns: A New Low for the Monarch?
The image has raised alarm over the king’s deteriorating health, echoing concerns that surfaced following his recent meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. In that appearance, the monarch appeared fatigued and frail, though he was supported by a cane. However, during his Paris shopping excursion, he appeared to be without his usual walking aid, which has left some to question the true extent of his physical condition.
This sighting of the Moroccan king in public comes after a notable absence from the streets of Paris since 2022. Back then, a viral video surfaced, showing Mohammed VI swaying under the apparent influence of alcohol. In the footage, his security detail could be seen attempting to shield him from the public’s gaze, while bystanders snapped photos, clearly identifying the monarch despite his inebriated state. The video sparked a massive uproar on social media and in major international media outlets, as it depicted the king in a manner unbecoming of a leader of his stature.
Despite attempts by Moroccan media to dismiss the video as doctored, numerous experts in video manipulation have confirmed its authenticity. This incident, coupled with his latest public appearance, has cast a long shadow over the king’s leadership and well-being.
The Royal Image: Crisis or Decline?
The fresh controversy surrounding King Mohammed VI’s public image and health raises serious questions about his ability to continue leading the Kingdom of Morocco. The monarch, who has faced mounting criticism in recent years due to both his personal behavior and the political climate in Morocco, now finds his reputation further tarnished by his increasingly erratic appearances.
Fashion experts have also weighed in, criticizing the king’s attire as not only inappropriate but also a potential symbol of his psychological decline. The mismatch between his royal status and his disheveled appearance has prompted some to suggest that his behavior reflects a deeper personal crisis, which could have implications for the future of the Moroccan monarchy.
The image has already begun to spark discussions among the Moroccan public and political analysts, with many wondering how state-controlled media outlets will address the monarch’s latest appearance. Given the intense scrutiny surrounding his reign, the question arises: How will the royal media spin this controversial image? Will they attempt to deflect attention from the king’s apparent struggles, or will they confront the public with the uncomfortable reality of a monarch in decline?
As the monarch continues his stay in Paris, it remains to be seen whether this latest incident will deepen the growing concerns over King Mohammed VI’s leadership or serve as yet another chapter in a series of troubling events that have shaken the Moroccan monarchy. The royal family’s image—already strained by various scandals—appears to be teetering on the brink, and the consequences of these revelations could ripple far beyond Morocco’s borders.
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