"Al Maghrib" - First Edition of the newspaper, published on April 16, 1937. The paper circulates with three publications per week.
It is customary for newspapers to introduce their first edition with an editorial establishing the goals of the newspaper and to define the conduct guidelines under which they will operate. As for us, we would have preferred that our newspaper speak for itself, but for the sake of honoring tradition, we provide here a quick insight on the objectives we have set for it. The vision that presided over this paper's creation is clear so there is little need for it to be highlighted or exposed in much detail. Firstly and lastly it aims to be accessible to the nation's youth so as to enable this nation to progress alongside its sister nations and to keep pace with the rapid rhythm of the evolution of modern civilization.
Such is the primary motivation defining the reason for the existence of this newspaper. We have no need to expound at length on its purpose given that enlightened Moroccans have already matured beyond the narrow pursuit of matters of self-interest and because the country as a whole has awakened and has taken its first steps toward self improvement. This newspaper has no intention in confining its scope of topics; it will not address only some topics and refrain from looking at others. Instead it will be interested in looking at all aspects of Moroccan life and its latest reforms. It will give priority to being informative, and to brief the reader on matters of vital interest. Its intent is be a mouthpiece for Morocco, to spread its news, to comment on the concerns on the minds of its diverse social elements, and to register their aspirations and current bearings. The newspaper will share information about what is happening outside the country with clear, lucid analyses, without distortion, abbreviation or exaggeration, but just as the events have actually unfolded so that the readers can follow international happenings and be attuned to upheavals that rock their world.
On the social front, this newspaper will do its best to free Moroccans of certain antiquated and harmful practices that are not only contrary to common sense but often contradict the very spirit of our religious teachings. It intends to denounce all that is by nature an unhealthy influence on the intellectual well-being of the citizenry, to prescribe appropriate remedies for recovery and to diffuse amongst the readers basic rudiments of knowledge.
On political matters, the paper will strive to lay forth the foundations for dialogue between the people and their government. It will work to establish closer ties of understanding based on mutual respect and trust in accordance with the prevailing national mood. Morocco has political rights that it will regain sooner or later, no matter what obstacles it has to face to meet its destiny. These political rights aim above all else to ensure that individuals have the right to be treated with consideration and dignity, that authority is entrusted by the people and that government manages the affairs of the country based on the best interests for all.
With respect to the economy, this paper will take interest in the study of economic problems that Morocco is struggling with. It will pay particular attention to the current crisis created by monetary instability, and will analyze the impact of the aftermaths on the lives of ordinary citizens. It will point the way for upcoming generations, by inspiring them with the economic successes of other nations so that they may take action using modern approaches to free themselves from the iron yolk of inertia that has kept Morocco chained down for years. These new generations will then be able to produce and consume more so that the nation may prosper materially and morally.
On the cultural front, the newspaper will open its columns to the young and active intellectuals as well as to the highly cultivated and experienced seniors members of our society. This newspaper will offer to each and everyone a forum for exposing and challenging their ideas, their studies as well as their artistic and literary endeavors. It will also keep them in touch with their middle eastern counterparts with whom they share a common language and culture.
Such are the hopes and objectives which we have laid out for this newspaper. If devoted and active people lend us a strong hand, then without a doubt this paper will fulfill its mission. It will do so under the shade of a throne defended by all and under the aegis of a King loved by all, may he always be victorious in all his ordeals and may he always rise to the peak of glory. Let us therefore march with the Almighty's blessing to light the way for the vitality of this newspaper.
"Al Maghrib" - First Edition of the newspaper, published on April 16, 1937
