On the occasion of the Throne Day, His Majesty King Mohammed VI has granted a pardon to 2,476 people sentenced by various Moroccan courts, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Justice.
Of the beneficiaries currently in detention, 2,278 prisoners are divided as follows:
- 171 inmates had the remainder of their prison term pardoned and their fines annulled.
- 2 inmates had their remaining prison terms pardoned.
- 2,090 inmates had their prison terms reduced.
- 15 inmates had their life sentences commuted to fixed-term sentences.
Among those currently at liberty, 182 people are divided as follows:
- 45 people had their prison terms or the remainder pardoned.
- 9 people had their prison terms pardoned, but their fines were maintained.
- 121 people had their fines or the remainder annulled.
- 7 people had both their prison terms and fines pardoned.
Additionally, His Majesty the King has granted pardon to prisoners convicted of extremism and terrorism. These individuals, numbering 16, received Royal Approval after expressing their commitment to the nation’s principles and institutions, revising their ideological orientations, and rejecting extremism and terrorism. They are divided as follows:
- 7 inmates had the remainder of their prison terms pardoned.
- 9 inmates had their prison terms reduced.
This act of clemency coincides with significant progress in the human rights situation in Morocco. Over recent years, Morocco has made substantial strides in upholding human rights, marked by a series of reforms and initiatives aimed at strengthening the rule of law and protecting individual freedoms.
The Moroccan government has been actively engaged in reforming its judicial system to ensure greater fairness and transparency. This includes efforts to enhance the independence of the judiciary, improve the conditions within prisons, and ensure that legal proceedings meet international standards of justice.
Additionally, Morocco has increased its efforts to protect freedoms of expression and assembly. The country has seen the establishment of various human rights institutions, such as the National Human Rights Council (CNDH), which plays a crucial role in monitoring and addressing human rights issues. The CNDH has been instrumental in promoting human rights education and awareness, investigating allegations of abuse, and providing recommendations for policy changes.
Human rights organizations and international observers have noted the progress in Morocco’s human rights landscape. For instance, the government has taken steps to address issues of torture and ill-treatment, with improved oversight and accountability mechanisms for security forces. There have also been initiatives aimed at combating human trafficking and protecting the rights of migrants and refugees.
Women’s rights have also seen notable improvements. Morocco has enacted laws to combat violence against women, ensure gender equality, and promote women’s participation in political and economic life. The country’s family law, known as the Moudawana, has been reformed to provide greater protections for women and children.
In the realm of freedom of the press, Morocco has made efforts to create a more open environment for journalists and media organizations. While challenges remain, there has been a noticeable reduction in the harassment and legal prosecution of journalists, contributing to a more robust and independent media landscape.
Morocco’s commitment to human rights is also reflected in its international engagements. The country has ratified numerous international human rights treaties and conventions, demonstrating its dedication to aligning with global standards. Morocco actively participates in the United Nations Human Rights Council and collaborates with various international human rights bodies.
Granting royal pardons is a customary practice in Morocco to mark national and religious holidays, symbolizing the nation’s values of forgiveness and social cohesion. This tradition is seen as an opportunity for the state to show mercy and reinforce social harmony, reflecting the principles of compassion and reconciliation that are deeply embedded in Moroccan culture.
In conclusion, the royal pardon granted by His Majesty King Mohammed VI on the occasion of the Throne Day not only highlights the values of forgiveness and clemency but also underscores the ongoing commitment to human rights and social justice in Morocco. The progress made in recent years is a testament to the country’s dedication to improving the lives of its citizens and upholding the principles of dignity, freedom, and justice. As Morocco continues on this path, the nation moves closer to realizing its vision of a just and equitable society for all its people.
