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The quality of television productions aired by Moroccan networks during the month of Ramadan has left many viewers wanting. Viewing figures reach their highest levels during the holy month and state-run channels invest their resources accordingly to present the maximum number of national productions. The programs and the people who create them are often criticized for not showing more interest in current affairs.

Jamal Baridi, a bank clerk, expressed his frustration at the absence of productions dealing with issues such as the fight against terrorism. "The Maghreb has really borne the brunt of terrorist attacks. We were expecting our artists to raise awareness among young people, but they only show trivial things."

Teacher Abderrahmane El Bachir agreed, saying that given the lack of programmes dealing with subjects of concern to the public, the viewer has no choice but to look elsewhere. "Arabic satellite channels put out programmes which deal in depth with a good number of issues. What a shame Moroccans are not looking at the problems threatening us, like security. We need awareness-raising programmes," he said.

Abdelkébir Fennane, an arts critic, told Magharebia that mediocrity is the hallmark of Ramadan programming. "Most productions arise from pure improvisation at all levels: script, production, actors... artists keep reproducing the same style and wear themselves out trying to raise a laugh using outdated methods which are no longer able to satisfy today's Moroccans," he said.

Fennane said he cannot understand the reasons why Channel 1 suspended the activities of its script reading panel, which was established in 2005 to sift through artistic works.

Mustapha Mesnaoui, former chairman of the panel, explained that it disappeared following the creation of the National Radio and Television Company (SNRT), whose charter did not extend to the panel's work.

Artists defend themselves as far as possible. Actor Abdelkader Moutaa said television production is acceptable and, if the level of creativity falls, there is no need to blame the actors, who are bursting with potential. "In Morocco, there is a crisis of creativity and imagination, which has been going on for years. Script-writers, dramatists and specialist technicians are sorely lacking," he pointed out.

State television directors reject the criticism, claiming that all efforts have been made to keep viewers satisfied. Nevertheless, the SNRT has called in a specialist team to review the programmes to air at peak times during Ramadan.

A representative cross-section of viewers was mobilised to view the various sitcoms and television films, talk shows and soaps. The programming department was keen to explain that the group reacted favourably to the programmes and that the proportion of national productions will not exceed 10% of programming, which includes a majority of Arab and international productions. In fact, to satisfy the broadest possible audience, programming choices include Arab, international and Indian films, as well as Egyptian, Syrian and Moroccan soap operas.

Alami Khallouqi, Director of Programming for Channel 1 has announced that TVM is not taking production quality lightly, and that everything has been carefully prepared in advance. He said the channel has redoubled its efforts to offer diverse and innovative programming to viewers. "Nothing has been left to chance. We have put in place a profusion of quality national productions, no fewer than five Arab soaps per day, plays, the best of international and particularly Arab productions, evenings of entertainment programmes and major sporting events, especially the national football championship."