Rabat – The Investigating Judge of Salé’s Court of Appeal has temporarily released El Mortada Iamrachen to travel to Al Hoceima for his father’s funeral.
The former Salafi activist was arrested earlier in June while participating in the ongoing demonstrations in the Rif. During his detention in Salé, the activist’s father passed away in Al Hoceima, leading Moroccan social media users to call for Iamrachen to be permitted to attend the funeral.
Iamrachen was taken to Al Hoceima by plane and will be released from prison while waiting trial. The Investigating Judge said in a statement that the temporary release will not affect the rest of the court proceedings, adding that he is not afraid Iamrachen will attempt to escape, as he has a stable residence in Al Hoceima.
El Mortada’s father saw his health deteriorate following the detention of his son, amid a series of arrests of Al Hoceima activists starting late May.
Iamrachen who is an activist in the Hirak protest movement in city and region of Al Hoceima, was detained for allegations that he had “praised terrorism.” The prosecution sparked criticism on Moroccan social media, as the activist is known for his moderate political and religious stances.
Iamrachen was among the Rif protest activists who agreed to engage in dialogue with the government in order to resolve the ongoing crisis in the Rif, where demonstrations have continued now for eight months.
In addition to his activism in the Hirak and previously in the 20th February movement in 2011, Iamrachen has been active on social media, promoting dialogue between religions and defending individual liberties, minorities, and gay rights.
