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Rabat – During a meeting today, Moroccan Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch received proposals from the commission responsible for reviewing the Family Code to present to King Mohammed VI.
Following the meeting, Akhannouch expressed gratitude for the collaborative approach adopted throughout the review process.
Speaking to the press, Akhannouch emphasized the importance of engaging with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, political parties, trade unions, and academic researchers. The inclusive method ensured a comprehensive examination of the proposed amendments to the Family Code.
The commission work included analyzing feedback received through email and conducting extensive consultations to gather diverse perspectives.
Akhannouch highlighted the significance of the commission’s role in advancing the welfare of Moroccan families. He commended King Mohammed VI for championing a participatory approach in shaping legal reforms that empower families as the cornerstone of society.
The proposed amendments to the Family Code are poised to bring about significant changes aimed at enhancing familial relationships, safeguarding rights, and promoting equality.
Read also: Benkirane Threatens Million-People March Against Family Code Reform
In September 2023, King Mohammed VI addressed a letter to Akhannouch commissioning his government to reform the family code. The King called on the government to submit draft recommendations based on consultations within six months before preparing and submitting a bill for parliamentary approval.
Since the start of the reform process, the family code has become a hot topic in Morocco. The country’s Islamist party Justice and Development Party (PJD) has spoken out against a number of the demands from human rights groups.
Earlier this month, PJD’s Secretary General, Abdelilah Benkirane, threatened to organize a million-people march against the ongoing family code reform.
Among the many proposed reforms, PJD takes issue with the proposal to criminalize underage marriage. According to Morocco’s former ruling party, the passing of such a law will deprive thousands of young women of the opportunity to get married.
