Rabat – Morocco’s National Press Union (SNPM) has called on media professionals, political actors, and human rights groups to act responsibly amid the ongoing investigation into journalist Ali Lmrabet’s case.
A statement from the Pub Casablanca prosecutor’s office announced Lmrabet’s release today after his arrest at the Tangier Airport due to allegations involving online publications containing defamatory and insulting remarks targeting individuals and institutions.
The office said the journalist was released after reviewing his case. It emphasized, however, that an investigation is still ongoing into the matter. The statement also stressed that the journalist was guaranteed all his rights provided by law, including the right to undergo a medical examination.
In response to an outpouring of statements and social media posts about the case, SNPM said it has been closely following the development in the matter. It reaffirmed its longstanding position that freedom of the press and freedom of expression are “among the fundamental pillars of a state government by the rule of law, as guaranteed by the Moroccan constitution.”
Emphasizing the importance of a fair trial, SNPM urged all media professionals, political actors, and human rights organizations to act responsibly by respecting the confidentiality of the ongoing investigation.
The union insisted on the need to avoid any act that could influence the normal course of justice and infringe on the rights of the parties involved, or prejudge the outcome of judicial proceedings.
The statement concluded by emphasizing that the union will continue to monitor Lmrabet’s case, renewing its commitment to defending rights and freedoms and promoting professional and responsible journalism.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Casablanca prosecutor pledged to ensure that the appropriate legal measures are taken once the investigation is completed, emphasizing that all items seized from the journalist during his arrest were returned to him.
