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March 28, 2025 – Morocco –
In late 2024, Fouad Abdelmoumni, a prominent Moroccan human rights activist and economist, was arrested after posting on Facebook alleging that Morocco had employed Israeli-made Pegasus spyware to monitor French officials. Although released two days later, Abdelmoumni faced serious charges of “spreading false claims” and “reporting a knowingly fictitious crime.” In March 2025, a Casablanca court sentenced him to six months in prison—a ruling that may be enforced depending on the outcome of his appeal.
Abdelmoumni is well-known as the former head of Transparency Morocco and a member of the left-wing Alliance of the Left Federation party. His arrest and sentencing have sparked widespread condemnation from international human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch and Democracy for the Arab World Now. These groups argue that the case represents part of a broader crackdown on dissent and free expression in Morocco.
Legal experts point out that Abdelmoumni’s case should have been dealt with under the country’s Press Code, which regulates media-related offenses but does not include prison sentences. Instead, the authorities charged him under the Penal Code, allowing for harsher punishment. This choice has fueled criticism that Morocco’s government is increasingly using legal mechanisms to suppress voices critical of its policies, especially on social media platforms.
The situation reflects growing concerns over shrinking space for free speech in Morocco. Activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens have faced legal repercussions, including arrests and prosecutions, for expressing dissent online. Such actions undermine democratic principles and the right to free expression enshrined in international human rights standards.
Abdelmoumni’s sentencing is emblematic of the continuing challenges faced by those who dare to criticize the government or expose sensitive issues. Human rights groups continue to call for his immediate release and urge Moroccan authorities to respect fundamental freedoms and end the persecution of activists and journalists. Without reforms, Morocco risks further isolating itself and damaging its international reputation on human rights.
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