فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
In a controversial speech during a meeting of female representatives from the Justice and Development Party, Abdelilah Benkirane, the party’s Secretary-General, delivered strong criticism against the legal prosecution of journalist Hamid El Mehdaoui, editor-in-chief of “Badil” news outlet.
El Mehdaoui faces charges related to freedom of expression, which Benkirane argued are unwarranted. He emphasized that Morocco must not, under any circumstances, drift toward dictatorship.
Addressing the role of the state and its institutions, Benkirane underlined that Morocco’s monarchy should remain a guarantor of national stability while ensuring the independence of the judiciary. He noted that King Mohammed VI, as a symbol of stability, upholds the law but would oppose any practices threatening democracy or curbing press freedom.
Benkirane stressed the importance of journalism as a tool for holding authorities accountable rather than a means for coercive reporting or persecution. He called for constructive criticism of institutions, balanced with respect for national constants, asserting, “Morocco rejects dictatorship; we need democracy and the protection of human rights.”
The party leader also addressed the role of Islamist movements in Morocco, asserting that the Justice and Development Party does not pursue an extremist religious agenda. Instead, it seeks to promote comprehensive development based on Morocco’s foundation of moderate religious principles. He emphasized the importance of involving all political forces in building a modern democratic state while safeguarding rights and freedoms.
Concluding his remarks, Benkirane stated that Morocco’s political future relies on the ability of all political parties, including Islamists, to overcome the country’s political and economic challenges. He called for cooperation among political factions to achieve economic and social progress while preserving the values of democracy and justice.
source : fesnews media
