On Monday, a number of prominent journalists were released from prison after serving varying sentences under a royal pardon on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s accession to the throne.
Tawfik Bouachrine, the former director of Akhbar Al-Youm newspaper, left Arjat 2 prison in Salé after serving nearly seven years of his 15-year sentence. Bouachrine, who was convicted on charges including “human trafficking and using power and influence for sexual exploitation,” expressed his joy upon leaving prison, with a wide smile on his face.
In Casablanca, Suleiman Raissouni, the former editor-in-chief of Akhbar al-Youm, was released from prison after serving nearly four years of his five-year sentence: “I’m not bought, I’m not sold. I am a journalist with my head held high.”
On the other hand, journalist Omar Radi left Tiflet prison, where he wore a Palestinian keffiyeh and embraced his mother after serving four years of his six-year sentence on charges of “espionage and rape” since his conviction in 2021.
Human rights activists welcomed King Mohammed VI’s decision, which included the release of a number of journalists and bloggers.
On the occasion of Throne Day 2024, King Mohammed VI issued an order to pardon 2,476 detainees and those in custody, on the occasion of this important anniversary.
Source : Fes News Media