Moroccan lawyers have suspended a nationwide strike after the government agreed to suspend a controversial bill reforming their profession. The move comes amid political turmoil surrounding Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi, who faced calls for his resignation over the proposed legislation.
The lawyers began a nationwide strike on January 26, 2026, protesting Law 66.23, which they argued would undermine their independence. The strike led to significant disruptions in the country’s judicial system, with lawyers halting all court activities. The action marked a significant escalation in the dispute between the legal profession and the government.
Despite the controversy, Minister Ouahbi initially dismissed rumors of his impending resignation, stating he had no intention of stepping down. He expressed surprise at the reports circulating while he was abroad, calling them unfounded. Ouahbi emphasized that the legislative process surrounding the bill had proceeded normally, and that he hadn’t faced any loss of influence.
The situation was further complicated by the intervention of Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, who sought to mediate between the minister and the lawyers. Ouahbi clarified that Akhannouch’s involvement was within his constitutional and political rights, and he welcomed the prime minister’s efforts to de-escalate the tensions. He indicated he would await the conclusions of a newly formed commission tasked with further discussions with the lawyers.
The suspension of the bill represents a temporary resolution to the crisis, but the underlying issues remain. The case highlights the ongoing tensions between the Moroccan government and the legal profession regarding the regulation of the legal profession. Political observers note a dispute between Akhannouch and the PJD party over who deserves credit for resolving the crisis.
Following the lawyers’ decision to suspend their strike, notaries have also announced a two-day perform stoppage, adding another layer to the ongoing unrest within the Moroccan legal system. This action underscores the widespread dissatisfaction among legal professionals with recent legislative proposals.
While Minister Ouahbi initially resisted calls for his resignation, the suspension of the bill has seemingly eased immediate pressure on his position.
