Television viewers vehemently criticised the prime-time comedy and drama programmes of both Moroccan channels during the Holy month of Ramadan despite bringing the best talent.
Young viewers took their criticism to the global social networking website “Facebook” through creating groups that call for the boycott of 2M and Al-Oula TV channels.
This is not the first year that Moroccans have been debating the ‘misery’ of Ramadan’s television programmes, which some called ‘time wasters and cheap’.
It seems that the government-owned channels did not learn the lessons of the previous years as one viewer said they mocked people’s intelligence and humiliated their feelings.
“Both channels have a whole year to prepare a creative and appealing work, but keep on airing below-par programmes that are a waste of taxpayers’ money,” said Khalid Amry whose opinion is echoed by many other viewers.
“Most of the programmes are a joke. I don’t know which socio-professional category they are trying to please. Maybe, that is where the problem lies,” said Anas Belloul.
“Let’s not forget that we are a demanding nation when it comes to comedy shows. I would say that local production and creativity are overall weak,” added the 26-year-old advertising producer.
Moroccans’ ire goes to Facebook
The wave of criticism, which was led by Moroccan newspapers at the start of Ramadan, continues on Facebook as groups have been created to launch scathing attacks on the two public channels regarding their comedy programmes which have doubled comapred to last year.
One member of a boycott group called for the resignation of 2M directors and officials for airing ‘dull’ programmes, including ‘Cool Center’.
Another group called “2M Give Us Our Money Back” urged 2M to refund Moroccan viewers or at least air constructive programmes.
While Facebook groups are still drawing thousands of members and television viewers are finding it hard to digest the prime-time programmes while breaking their fast, the criticism is gaining an international coverage, which they hope will force public television officials to heed their calls and avoid the recurring mistakes.
Dr. Saad Guerraoui ©, Senior Editor
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