Independence of Judiciary, Red Line for Morocco- Says King Mohammed VI

Morocco’s reform of the judiciary sought fostering the judiciary power’s independence as a supreme goal, King Mohammed VI told participants at an international conference in Marrakech.

“The Kingdom’s Constitution expressly affirms the independence of the judiciary from the legislative and executive powers, and creates a Higher Council of the Judiciary,” said the King in a speech read out at the conference themed “The independence of the judiciary: guaranteeing the rights of litigants and upholding the principles of justice”.

The King recalled that the Constitution of 2011 prohibits any interference in the cases being prosecuted, and the law provides for sanctions against any attempt to influence judges.

Morocco’s supreme law stipulates that “any failure by a judge to uphold his or her obligations with respect to the independence and impartiality of the judiciary would be considered a serious professional violation which could give rise to criminal prosecution,” he went on to say.

The Moroccan supreme law “confirms the judge’s role in terms of protecting the rights, freedoms and judicial security of individuals and groups. It also guarantees not only a citizen’s right to take legal action, but also the presumption of innocence as well as the right to a fair trial within a reasonable timeframe.”

“Enhancing confidence in the judiciary as the bedrock of the rule of law and the main driver of development is another challenge that needs to be tackled,” according to the Sovereign.

The conference brings together participants from around the globe including ministers of Justice, presidents of higher Councils of the judiciary, human rights organizations, professional bodies as well as experts and academics from various countries.

The event, which runs until April 4, is part of the celebration of the installation of the Higher Council of the Judiciary (CSPJ) in the Kingdom, and the independence of the Prosecutor’s Office.