Moroccan MP Mohamed Ouzine Calls for Media Freedom and Accountability in Parliament

In a session of the Moroccan Parliament on November 14, 2024, MP Mohamed Ouzine sparked widespread debate with his powerful remarks on the state of the media in Morocco. He began his speech by stressing the importance of press freedom as a fundamental pillar of any democratic society, expressing concern over the recent attempts to restrict this freedom faced by Moroccan media.

Ouzine pointed out the contradictions in the government’s approach to the press, highlighting the royal pardon granted to journalists, while certain government entities were pursuing legal actions against them. This, he argued, created an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty surrounding the future of media freedom in the country.

He expressed his discontent that these actions came at a time when the media was already under various pressures, potentially diminishing its role in monitoring government performance and contributing to transparency.

The MP discussed the need to distinguish between two types of media: media that invades personal lives or engages in defamation, and media that critiques public policies and decisions. He emphasized that political criticism is a protected right and should enjoy full freedom. He also stressed the necessity for a strong media environment that is free from any external influences or pressures, one that does not compromise, buy, or sell its integrity, but instead adheres to professional ethics and serves the public good.

Ouzine expressed hope that the government would recognize the challenges facing national media and urged action to address the obstacles hindering its development. He emphasized that this could be achieved by providing a free environment for journalists, which would help enhance the credibility of national media and its role in strengthening democracy and public participation.

In conclusion, the MP reiterated that freedom belongs to everyone and is not exclusive to any particular group or entity, quoting, “Freedom is the sky, and the sky belongs to all.”

source : fesnews media

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