Cautious moves towards more openness are part of King Hassan's plans for his heir
This year's elections, probably in May or June, may bring opposition parties into government but the political opening will be limited. Much of the power will stay with the Palace and party barons, most of whom were operating before Independence in 1956. Underlying King Hassan II's gradualist reform is his determination to undercut Islamist groups and avoid the mistakes that, he believes, have been made in Algeria and Egypt – and to prepare for the succession. The Palace wants to show it is serious about reform, with Crown Prince Sidi Mohamed, 33, playing a more political role as succession talk grows.
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