Moroccan journalist to face trial after criticizing counter-terrorism laws
Journalist Rachid Nini, editor of Morocco’s El-Massa daily newspaper, will go on trial Tuesday, May 17, after being detained on April 28. Nini published several articles that were critical of Moroccan security forces’ counter-terrorism practices and shed light on government corruption.
In the past newspapers and have been fined, and journalists— including publisher Idris Chattane and blogger Hassan Barhoun—have been arrested and imprisoned. In March 2011, Morocco implemented a new National Human Rights Council. Morocco’s leader, King Mohammed VI also promised constitutional reform, and pledged to give up some of his political power. Yet, authorities continue to curb freedom of expression on sensitive issues relating to national security and stop journalists like Nini from expressing their views.
Freedom House calls for the immediate release of Rachid Nini and urges the Moroccan government to promote press freedom.
Learn more:
Learn more:
Countries: