Latest news with #LawNo.43.22
Morocco World
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
Government Approves Decree Making Alternative Sentencing in Morocco a Reality
Rabat– The Government approved on Thursday the draft decree No. 2.25.386, which sets the framework for implementing alternative sentencing measures. The draft was presented by Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi during the weekly government council. This initiative is part of the enforcement of Law No. 43.22 on alternative penalties, aimed at strengthening the criminal justice system, improving sentencing mechanisms, reducing prison overcrowding, and promoting the reintegration of offenders into society. It adopts more humane approaches for less serious crimes, explained Government spokesperson and Minister Delegate for Parliamentary relations, Mustapha Baitas, during a press briefing following the Council meeting. The decree also seeks to implement provisions of Articles 1-647 and 13-647 of the Criminal Procedure Code. It outlines the organization of responsibilities for the penitentiary administration in monitoring the execution of alternative sentences at both central and local levels, and establishes the management procedures for electronic monitoring devices such as ankle bracelets, added Baitas. A key objective is to ensure coherence and optimal coordination among all involved parties to guarantee the effective application of these alternative sentences. Ouahbi characterized the law as a milestone in the nation's criminal justic e approach. Instead of depending exclusively on imprisonment, the law introduces penalties focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment. He emphasized that this change goes beyond legislation, requiring coordinated efforts throughout the entire judicial system. Separately, the Minister noted that the review of draft decree No. 2.23.152, which relates to the enforcement of Article 13 of Framework Law No. 97.13 on the protection and promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities, has been postponed to a future government meeting. Tags: Abdelatif Ouahbialternative punishmentsAlternative sentencing
Morocco World
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
Morocco's Justice Minister Pushes for Stronger Collaboration on Alternative Sentencing Law
Rabat – Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi urged Moroccan institutions on Wednesday to work more closely together to ensure the country's new alternative sentencing law achieves its full impact. His call came during a national conference in Rabat focused on the practical implementation of Law No. 43.22, which introduces non-custodial penalties into the Moroccan justice system. Ouahbi described the law as a turning point in the country's approach to criminal justice. Rather than relying solely on prison terms, the law opens the door to penalties that aim to rehabilitate rather than punish. He made it clear that this shift requires more than just legislation; it demands coordinated action across the judicial system. 'The judge has full authority to decide when and how to apply these sentences,' Ouahbi said, speaking to an audience of legal professionals and policymakers. 'But for this to work, we need solid structures, detailed reports on offenders' circumstances, and above all, the will to make the system more humane.' He drew from global practices to underline the importance of flexibility, warning against bureaucratic resistance due to limited resources. 'We can't let a lack of equipment or staff prevent us from doing what's right,' he added. Law 43.22 reflects Morocco's efforts to modernize its justice system. It supports the reintegration of offenders, aims to reduce pressure on overcrowded prisons, and seeks to curb public spending. The law applies only to offenses with sentences under five years and excludes repeat offenders where deterrence remains a key concern. Alternative sentences under the law fall into four categories: unpaid community work, electronic surveillance, restricted rights or corrective measures, and financial penalties based on income. The conference featured two in-depth sessions, one focused on the legal framework of alternative sentencing, and the other on the challenges of turning that framework into everyday practice.
Morocco World
03-04-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
Prison Overcrowding: Morocco Moves Forward with Alternative Penalties
Rabat – Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch chaired a meeting in Rabat today to review the plan for implementing Law No. 43.22, which introduces alternative penalties in Morocco. Set to take effect in August 2025, the law is part of the ongoing judicial reforms under the auspices of King Mohammed VI. The meeting focused on the progress of the draft decree-law that will formalize the alternative penalties system. The law aims to address overcrowding in Moroccan prisons while providing opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Discussions also included the technical, financial, and human resources required to implement the law effectively. Prime Minister Akhannouch highlighted the importance of the royal speeches and messages advocating for a new criminal policy. The king has repeatedly called for a revision of both criminal law and procedures to align with global developments, he recalled,emphasizing that the adoption of alternative penalties followed extensive review of international practices, ensuring that they suit Morocco's societal needs. The alternative penalties include community service, electronic monitoring, restrictions on certain rights, and daily fines. The new law is designed to relieve pressure on the prison system while encouraging the rehabilitation of offenders, with exceptions made for serious crimes carrying sentences of over five years or for repeat offenders. Akhannouch also expressed gratitude to both governmental and non-governmental sectors involved in the initiative, urging them to ensure its success. He assured that the government would provide all necessary support to ensure the smooth implementation of the law. This move aligns with global trends in criminal justice, focusing on human rights and providing an alternative to traditional incarceration. The law aims to contribute to the reduction of prison overcrowding and the rationalization of costs associated with incarceration, while offering offenders a chance to reintegrate into society. Tags: akhannouchmoroccan prisonsprisons in Morocco
