A leaked recording of a government committee meeting concerning a journalist critical of the government has ignited a firestorm of controversy in Morocco. The recording, reportedly from a session of the “Committee on Ethics and Disciplinary Matters” within the temporary body overseeing the press and publishing sector, has triggered widespread condemnation from media organizations, political groups, and human rights advocates.
The recording allegedly contains disparaging remarks directed at journalist Hamid El Mahdaoui, as well as suggestions of using the judicial system to silence dissent. Several organizations have issued strongly worded statements denouncing what they perceive as an attempt to suppress independent journalism.
The National Union of Moroccan Press described the content of the recordings as “serious information” that harms the dignity of individuals and institutions, constituting a “violation of the spirit of self-regulation and independence of the sector.” The union called for an immediate and impartial investigation to uncover the full details of the recordings and to accurately determine responsibility.
The National Federation of Journalism, Media, and Communication also condemned the recordings, labeling the situation a “professional and ethical scandal that has shaken professional and human rights circles.”
More than one hundred Moroccan journalists issued a statement condemning these “extremely dangerous practices.” The Association of Lawyers’ Associations in Morocco and the Federation of Young Lawyers’ Associations also denounced the recordings, stressing that “the dignity of the defense is a red line” and that any insult to lawyers is “an attack on justice itself.”
The leaked recording is being viewed as more than just a verbal slip-up, revealing a hostile and vengeful mentality. The scandal has intensified scrutiny of press freedoms and government oversight within the Moroccan media landscape. The incident raises serious questions about the independence and integrity of the institutions tasked with safeguarding journalistic ethics and freedom of expression. Further developments are expected as investigations unfold.
