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Marrakech – The Court of First Instance in Rabat on Tuesday convicted YouTuber Mohammed Reda Taoujni of defamation against Prince Moulay Hicham. The court handed down a fine of MAD 100,000 ($10,000) and ordered Taoujni to pay MAD 600,000 ($60,000) in civil damages to the prince.
According to converging reports, the court also ordered the immediate deletion of the video at the center of the complaint from YouTube. It further ordered the publication of the verdict at Taoujni’s expense within 15 days. The ruling came after the case was placed in deliberation during a hearing on April 21.
The case traces back to a video Taoujni published on his YouTube channel. In the video, the YouTuber leveled accusations against Prince Moulay Hicham, including allegations of illegal financial transfers worth millions of dollars. The prince considered the statements an attack on his honor and reputation.
Prince Moulay Hicham filed a criminal complaint for defamation and chose to pursue the case as a private citizen seeking redress. He retained former bar president Abderrahim Jamai to handle the matter. Jamai filed the complaint on behalf of the prince and represented him throughout the proceedings.
Freedom of expression is not freedom to defame and smear
Jamai had previously stated that his client firmly believes in freedom of opinion and expression. He stressed, however, that this freedom must stop where people’s dignity and honor begin. Jamai described the use of degrading language and attacks on personal honor as having no connection to the noble mission of journalism.
The lawyer added that Prince Moulay Hicham had challenged Taoujni to present his evidence before the court. He said the defense was prepared to examine and respond to any proof the YouTuber could produce.
Prince Moulay Hicham argued that launching accusations of this magnitude without a legal basis or solid proof violates the provisions of Morocco’s press and publishing law. That law seeks to balance freedom of expression with the protection of individuals from defamation and slander.
A notable detail emerged during the trial: the prince’s defense team explicitly asked the court not to impose a prison sentence on Taoujni. They requested only financial penalties, and the court’s verdict appears to have followed that line of moderation.
Following the ruling, Taoujni wrote that he respects the court’s decision. He noted, however, that the litigation process is not over. He indicated he would appeal the verdict.
