Police out in force as 1,000 rally for reforms in Morocco

Almost 1,000 people rallied amid a heavy police presence in Morocco's biggest city Casablanca today to demand political reforms and a new constitution, a witness told AFP.

"There were nearly 1,000 people. Most of the slogans were calling for political reforms and a new constitution," the witness said.

The protest took place nearly a week after thousands of people staged rallies demanding political reform and limits on the powers of king Mohammed VI under the so-called "February 20" movement.

"Unlike during the February 20 demonstration, the police presence was more visible today," one of the participants said.

Though largely peaceful, the previous protest was followed by unrest that left six people dead.

Interior minister Taib Cherkaoui has blamed the violence on rioters and ex-convicts, saying they had damaged or set fire to 33 public buildings, 24 banks, 50 businesses or private buildings and 66 vehicles.

Thousands of young Moroccans have joined the "February 20" movement on the social networking site Facebook, calling for peaceful demonstrations demanding a new constitution limiting the king's powers and more social justice.

The call has similar origins to the revolts that toppled decades-old regimes in Tunisia and Egypt and sparked protests in Libya, Bahrain, Yemen and Algeria.