The Moroccan institutional model is an advanced political system, nevertheless, for the most part, it is not properly applied. The problem concerns actual implementation on the ground, the sovereign said, underlining his keenness to respecting the prerogatives of institutions as well as the separation of powers.

"However, if officials fail to discharge their duties, and the interests of the homeland and of citizens are jeopardized, it is incumbent upon me, as per the Constitution, to ensure the country's security and stability and to safeguard people’s interests as well as their rights and freedoms," HM the King said, warning that he will not accept any backtracking on democratic achievements, nor tolerate any obstruction as far as the work of institutions is concerned.

Both the Constitution and the law are quite clear, and powers need no explanation, the monarch noted.

Officials must exercise their prerogatives without waiting for someone's permission. And instead of repeating the same excuse - namely 'I am being prevented from doing my job’ - it is better for them to offer their resignation, which nobody would reject, the sovereign underscored.

Morocco must come first: before political parties, before elections and before senior positions, HM the King affirmed.

"Until my very last breath, I will always take pride in serving you, for I was brought up to love our motherland and to serve its sons and daughters," HM the King said, promising to keep up his earnest endeavors and seek to meet people's expectations so that their aspirations may be fulfilled.

The question of the Moroccan Sahara is not open for discussion, and, of course, it remains a top priority, the sovereign said, reiterating his attachment to achieving, in all regions of the Kingdom, a new a march for the achievement of human and social development; a march for equality and social justice for all Moroccans.

"Such a major endeavor cannot be carried out in one region and not in the others," the sovereign noted.

"One may come up with the most efficient development model and the best plans and strategies but, without a change in mentality; without having the best civil servants; without the political parties choosing the best elites that are qualified to run public affairs; without a sense of responsibility and national commitment; one would not be able to offer all Moroccans the free, dignified life one wants them to have," the sovereign stressed.

Despite these observations, HM the King said he does not want citizens to think, after listening to this address, "that I am being pessimistic, far from it! You know that I am a realist. I tell the truth, painful though it may be. Pessimism is the lack of will, the absence of a forward-looking vision and the inability to see things as they are", adding that "our resolve is both firm and sincere, and we also have a clear, long-term vision. We know who we are and where we are heading."

Throughout the centuries, and by the Grace of the Almighty, Morocco has managed to survive countless hardships, thanks to the close, symbiotic relationship between the Throne and the people. And here we are today, forging ahead and making progress, together, in various sectors. We confidently and resolutely look forward to making more achievements, HM the King concluded.