Gary Fitleberg, October 21, 2003

Moroccan women are about to win greater rights in marriage and divorce under proposed reforms unveiled by King Mohammed VI.

Moving from the dark ages to modern times the minimum age for women to marry will be raised from 15 to 18, equal that of men, and women would also get property rights in marriage.

It is an important step in the right direction to democracy and freedom as well as equal rights.

Women would be able to divorce their husbands, rather then only the other way around. Unlike the situation today divorce would need a judge’s approval.

Muslim men would still be able to marry as many as four wives, but for the first time polygamy would also need a judge’s authorization, in addition to consent to the man’s existing wives and fiancée.

"Make husband and wife jointly responsible for the family in keeping with the words of my ancestor the prophet [Mohammed], ‘Only an honorable man will honor [women] and be an ignoble man will humble them," the King told the parliament as they reconvened.

Lawmakers are expected to approve the reforms.

Morocco and Turkey are two Muslim nations seeking enlightenment for Islam. A policy of honesty and moderation rather than extremist fanatical fundamentalism of Wahhabism.

It is time that the important teachings of the Holy Koran be followed finally rather than being misinterpreted and perverted by those corrupt dictatorships who seek to promote only their power and riches over the masses.

Gary Fitleberg is a Political Analyst specializing in International Relations with emphasis on Middle East affairs.

Copyright © 2003 Gary Fitleberg