Morocco King Calls on Ombudsman Institution to Uphold Rule of Law

King Mohammed VI has urged the Moroccan Ombudsman institution to continue its contribution to upholding the principles of the rule of law, transparency and good governance in the management of public services.

The Sovereign, who appointed on Thursday Mohamed Benalilou as Ombudsman, also called the Mediator institution to continue making recommendations aimed at “guaranteeing the equality of citizens before the law and the administration and improving the quality of services provided by public institutions, State services and local authorities”, said a statement released by the Royal Office.

On this occasion, the King underlined the role of the Ombudsman Institution, an independent national body, which endeavors to end injustices and defend the rights of citizens against any abuse within the frame of the respect of the principles of the rule of law, justice and equity, added the statement.

The Monarch also called on the new Mediator to build on achievements made, while ensuring the full implementation of the powers of this Institution both with regard to mediation and rapprochement procedures and in respect of proposing legal proceedings, as well as in terms of the popularization of its role and powers and interaction with aggrieved citizens.

The Mediator Institution handles complaints lodged by citizens regarding several issues including expropriation, enforcement of court judgement, taxation, misuse of administrative procedures…

It issues proposals and recommendations for the simplification a complex administrative procedure, or a law whose firm implementation or incompatibility with the changing realities may cause unfairness and harm to the complainants.

The Mediator Institution also seeks to bridge the gap between citizens and the public administration in a bid to restore a trust-centered relationship based on the spirit of good citizenship, rule of law and principles of human rights, justice and equity.