بيروت ـ داود رمال
في لحظة سياسية دقيقة تتقاطع فيها حسابات الداخل مع ضغوط الإقليم وتداعيات الحرب، عاد ملف التفاهمات العابرة للطوائ
Moroccan Court Rejects Request for Release of activists
Table of Contents
A Moroccan court rejected a request for the release of activists detained in connection with protests in the Rif region and Casablanca, according to reports from January 30, 2026. The activists face charges related to undermining state security and disrupting public order.
Background on the Rif Protests
The protests in the Rif region, primarily centered around the city of Imzouren, began in October 2016 following the death of Mohsin Fikri, a fishmonger who was crushed in a garbage truck while trying to reclaim confiscated goods. Human Rights Watch documented the initial protests as largely peaceful demonstrations against local corruption, economic marginalization, and lack of government services.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The Moroccan government responded to the protests with a crackdown, arresting numerous activists and imposing harsh sentences. Many were charged under Article 218 of the Penal Code, which criminalizes undermining internal security.amnesty International has raised concerns about the fairness of the trials and the use of broadly worded charges to suppress dissent. As of January 30, 2026, the status of these cases remains largely unchanged, with ongoing appeals and continued detention of many activists.
Alongside the Rif region cases, activists in Casablanca have also faced legal challenges for participating in demonstrations and expressing critical views of the government. These cases often involve charges related to illegal assembly and inciting unrest.The Committee to Protect Journalists has reported on restrictions on press freedom and the targeting of journalists covering protests in morocco.
Recent Developments (as of January 30, 2026)
As of January 30, 2026, there have been no critically important new developments in the cases of the detained activists. The court’s recent rejection of the release request indicates a continued hard line from the Moroccan authorities.Civil society organizations continue to call for the release of the activists and for a clear and fair review of their cases.
