The era of arbitrary detention in Morocco is over- Minister

By Loubna Flah

Morocco World News

Casablanca, June 22, 2012

Mustapha Ramid, the minister of justice and liberties sounded in full control of his ministerial prerogatives as a guardian of human rights when he stated “The era of arbitrary detention is over once for all” in allusion to the new impulse given to individual liberties in Morocco and the efforts made towards the enforcement of the rule of law.

According to the daily Al Massae, Mr. Ramid excluded the likelihood of kidnapping and arbitrary detention in the new Morocco. He adds “In case these human rights violations are incurred to citizens, the law will be enforced and sanctions will be implemented on any person who infringes on individual liberties regardless of their status”.

As regards to the situation inside jails, the minister asserted that he will undertake the necessary actions once he receives the report of the justice and legislation committee. He promised to investigate duly any complaint concerning mistreatment of prisoners.

The minister of justice and individual liberties was rather objective in appraising the progress made in Human rights in Morocco. He stated “Morocco has made significant progress in human rights records, yet the situation is far from being perfect”.

Regarding the use of force against protestors, Mr. Ramid asserted that force will not be used unless it is necessary. He also expressed dissatisfaction with the presence of only one woman in the government asserting that the government’s efforts to enforce equity remain unsatisfactory. On the other hand, Mr. Ramid considered that underage girls’ marriage is not very common since only 19 cases were registered; seven of these marriages were interrupted. In a subtle reference to Amina Filali’s case, Mr. Ramid considered that the media buzz over was this case not relevant taking into account the figures he revealed earlier.

The oversimplification of the rape marriage is liable to stir a vivid reaction among women rights activists. In addition, the acknowledgment that there “might” still be cases of arbitrary detention is a harbinger that the government is not the only one who is pulling the string of the game in the country.