Moroccan journalists are raising serious concerns about teh integrity of the nation’s press regulation, alleging that a key ethics committee continued to operate-and issue rulings-after its mandate expired on October 1st. The controversy stems from a leaked video purportedly revealing improper influence within the Commission of Ethics and Disciplinary Affairs, sparking calls for greater transparency and independence in the oversight of Morocco‘s media landscape. A coalition of journalists is demanding an investigation and accountability for alleged abuses of power, fearing a broader assault on press freedom in the country.
Journalists are voicing strong concerns over alleged misconduct within Morocco’s press ethics and disciplinary committee, claiming the body continued to operate despite the expiration of its mandate. The controversy, sparked by a leaked video, raises questions about press freedom and the independence of judicial processes in the country.
A group of journalists have issued a statement expressing “deep indignation” regarding practices attributed to the Commission of Ethics and Disciplinary Affairs, which operates under a provisional committee overseeing the press and publishing sector. The core of the dispute centers on allegations that the commission continued to issue rulings even after its legal authority had lapsed.
The journalists condemn what they describe as the commission’s “unworthy” conduct, as detailed in a video published by journalist Hamid El Mehdaoui. According to the statement, the video appears to show a disciplinary decision being received via telephone from outside the deliberation room – a clear violation of internal regulations requiring independent deliberations. This practice, they argue, invalidates any disciplinary decision reached.
Further fueling the controversy, the video allegedly reveals an attempt to influence the justice system. The statement claims the recording contains discussion of plans to contact the King’s Prosecutor General and the Superior Council of the Judiciary to discuss the case, a move the journalists believe would undermine the separation of powers and compromise the independence of the judiciary.
The journalists also allege the disciplinary authority was misused, transformed from a mechanism to ensure professional standards into a tool for pressure, retaliation, and settling scores against journalists. This alleged abuse extends to a broader attack on the journalistic community and the principle of self-regulation, they contend.
The statement emphasizes that the alleged misconduct isn’t limited to the case of Hamid El Mahdaoui, but represents a wider assault on press freedom and a detriment to an institution meant to protect professional ethics. The signatories are demanding an urgent and transparent investigation into all the violations revealed in the video, along with accountability for those responsible.
They are also calling for the definitive dissolution of the National Press Council, asserting it has lost its legitimacy and independence. Solidarity was also expressed with journalists who have been subject to decisions made by the commission, including El Mahdaoui and Loubna El Fallah.
The journalists maintain that El Mahdaoui’s publication of the recording falls within his journalistic duties and the public’s right to know, and should not be grounds for prosecution or restriction. They warn that any legal action against him would be considered harassment and an attempt to stifle independent voices.
The provisional committee, they point out, lost its legal basis on October 1, and therefore has no authority to initiate disciplinary proceedings or refer cases to the judiciary. Any such actions are legally unfounded, they argue.
The statement calls for a comprehensive overhaul of the Commission of Ethics and Disciplinary Affairs to ensure transparency, independence, integrity, and respect for rights. They also seek protection for journalists’ dignity and an end to intimidation tactics used in the name of “discipline” or self-regulation.
A revision of the draft law concerning the National Press Council is also demanded, ensuring it aligns with the Constitution and democratic principles of representation. The journalists advocate for an institution based on competence, integrity, and credibility, rather than financial considerations, while strengthening protections for freedom of expression and self-regulation.
Finally, they are calling for a restructuring of the public support system for the press, with rules and a philosophy that reinforce freedom of expression, promote pluralism, and serve the public interest through an independent and professional press. They insist that support should be contingent on clear criteria of quality, legal compliance, and ethical commitment, with an annual transparent publication of beneficiaries to prevent misuse of funds.
The provisional commission has denied the allegations and announced it will pursue legal action against the person who released the video.
