Latest news with #RNI
Morocco World
5 hours ago
- Politics
- Morocco World
Name Theft: Charity Leader Accuses Political Party of Exploiting Identity
Marrakech – Hind Laidi, president of Jood humanitarian association founded in 2015, has spoken out against the ongoing confusion between her organization and a similarly named foundation affiliated with the National Rally of Independents (RNI) party led by Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch. The controversy revolves around what Laidi characterizes as deliberate misuse of her charity's identity for political purposes. She never anticipated that her association's name would shift from a symbol of humanitarian giving into a source of troubles and misunderstandings for the public. In a video shared yesterday, Laidi clarifies that her organization was not established to serve political agendas or exploit the suffering of the poor. 'We have no political affiliation, and I don't believe in the effectiveness of party politics in Morocco. We raise only one slogan: God, Nation, King,' she notes. The situation worsened significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Laidi, authorities depended on her association to distribute food aid using a precise system based on official stamped lists that guaranteed transparency. However, the surprise came quickly when another foundation with the same name emerged, using similar mechanisms but in an electoral context. This sparked considerable confusion, with some citizens discovering themselves suddenly enrolled in the RNI party without their knowledge, simply because they had received food aid through 'Ramadan baskets.' This overlap obscured the distinction between the charitable 'Jood Association' and the party-affiliated 'Jood Foundation.' The misunderstanding extended to media platforms and social networks. Articles and videos – including a clip from journalist Taoufik Bouachrine – directly connected the association with the political party, using images of the charitable Jood Association's activities. Laidi issued formal warnings without results Laidi reports sending formal warnings to the party's foundation demanding a name change, but to no avail. Consequently, the association's Facebook and Instagram pages were flooded with negative comments and accusations, while many volunteers found themselves subject to attacks and doubts about their independence and credibility. Laidi personally contacted officials and visited the official office of the other organization, asking they cease misusing her association's name. Despite these violations, she has not pursued legal action. Most troubling to Laidi is that after Akhannouch assumed leadership of the government, alongside Abdellatif Ouahbi – who had ranked among the strongest critics of the 'Jood Foundation' – taking over the Justice Ministry portfolio, the climate of trust has become almost non-existent. The Jood Association president declines to have her work and her organization's image used as fuel for electoral campaigns. She maintains that exploiting charitable work for political purposes undermines citizens' trust in solidarity and reduces it to a cheap electoral card. Founded in September 2015, Jood began as a grassroots movement providing hot meals to homeless people during nighttime outreach efforts. The organization transformed in 2016 to become an independent non-profit association supported by individual donors and institutional sponsors. Initially launched in Casablanca, Jood expanded to create branches in Marrakech, El Jadida, Rabat, Tangier, and Essaouira. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jood mobilized effectively, delivering assistance to 13,455 families and supporting 14 temporary confinement centers throughout Morocco. In 2021, in recognition of its persistent efforts against precariousness, the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH) designated Jood as the lead network association for 'Beggars and Vagrants.' Following the devastating Al Haouz earthquake, Jood intensified its efforts to deliver vital support to displaced persons, offering safe shelter, food assistance, and essential services. The organization continues its humanitarian mission despite the ongoing identity conflict with the politically-affiliated foundation. Tags: Aziz AkhannouchNational Rally of Independents (RNI)
Time of India
27-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
New FCRA norms: NGO applicants engaged in publication can't do news
Representative Image (AI-generated) New Delhi : The Centre has further tightened norms for non-governmental organisations, making it mandatory for those applying for registration, prior permission and renewal of registration under Foreign Contributions (Regulation) Act, 2010, to submit full details of persons and organisations concerned and the nature of their association. Moreover, those bringing out publications are required to affirm that they are not engaged in production or broadcast of news or, if registered with the Registrar of Newspapers for India, the RNI's 'not a newspaper' certification. Notifying the amended Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules, 2011, MHA unveiled revised Form FC-3A (fresh registration), Form FC-3B (prior permission) and Form FC-3C (renewal of registration). Under the new Form FC-3A, applicants should enclose financial statements, audit reports and year-wise activity reports of last three years, and an affidavit from each office bearer or director. If the association is engaged in publication-related activities, it should submit an undertaking from the chief functionary that it is not engaged in production or broadcast of news through electronic mode, and if registered with RNI, a 'not a newspaper' certification shall be submitted. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed! IC Markets Start Now Undo The applicant will also need to submit an affidavit regarding receipts and utilisation of foreign contribution after expiry or cancellation of a previously-held FCRA registration. Associations seeking prior permission should submit a commitment letter from the donor with the amount committed matching the donation amount mentioned in Form FC-3B. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Time of India
18-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Govt plugging gaps to block foreign 'funding' of news
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel MUMBAI: New Delhi is closing the chinks to block foreign donations from bankrolling print and digital newspapers in the first time, several non-profit entities, backed by foundations and philanthropists abroad, have been asked to give sworn declarations that they would not print or publish news or views on public donations can only be received by organisations that are registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 (FCRA), an emergency era law that has been tightened over the years amid fears of applying for a new FCRA licence and reactivating cancelled licences, chief functionaries of a number of non-profits associated with publications, had to sign certain affidavits. The formats of the newly-introduced affidavits, to be attested by a Notary Public, make it virtually impossible to receive foreign contributions in news outlets by interpreting laws differently, said professionals advising many non-governmental organisations (NGOs). It's a preemptive move by the ministry of home affairs (MHA) to restrain NGOs from mischaracterising 'media activities' as 'education or research'.NGOs or non-profits can be set up as trusts, or charitable societies, or companies formed under Section 8 of the Companies Act.(1) If an entity under FCRA owns a publication which is registered under The Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI), it must give an undertaking that the publication "does not contain public news, views, or comments on the public news." Also, it's not a 'newspaper' in terms of Section 1(1) of The Press and Registration of Books Act (PRB), 1867.(2) If an entity receiving foreign donations is engaged in printing or publishing a periodical which is not registered with RNI, the organisation must state that the publication does not come under the definition of newspaper as per Section 3(1)(g) of FCRA. This Section states that "no foreign contribution shall be accepted by any association or company engaged in the production or broadcast of audio news or audio-visual news or current affairs programmes through any electronic mode, or any other electronic form.."(3) The third affidavit relates to non-profits whose memorandum of association (MoA) or trust deed includes printing or publication as an object. Such entities (receiving foreign contributions) must declare that they "will not engage in any publication activity" that is covered under the definition of newspapers as per FCRA. According to Isha Sekhri, partner at Isha Sekhri Advisory LLP, FCRA unequivocally prohibits any association or company engaged in the production or broadcast of audio, audiovisual news, or current affairs programmes - regardless of the medium, whether digital, electronic, or any other form of mass communication - from receiving foreign contributions. "Although there is ongoing interpretational debate regarding the applicability of RNI registration to digital content, FCRA adopts a more expansive scope by incorporating definitions under the Information Technology Act, 2000. The recent introduction of specific affidavit requirements represents a regulatory step toward closing existing compliance gaps, with these changes being implemented right at the threshold level of the registration and approval process itself. It also places clear personal accountability on the chief functionary, marking a shift from procedural formalities to substantive legal adherence," said these affidavits, NGOs engaging in news or views would find it very difficult to claim that their publications are for 'awareness', 'research dissemination', 'advocacy' or 'community outreach' - and not 'news or views' in the statutory sense; or, avoid RNI registration, and ambiguously label their outputs as newsletters, bulletins, reports, or blogs. Also, entities confined to digital platforms (websites or YouTube channels) cannot escape the glare by claiming they are not 'newspapers' as per PRB creating a legal paper trail, the move turns the burden of proof on NGOs. The MHA spokesperson did not comment on the a media outfit must set up shop abroad to receive foreign donations. For local news media entities, foreign money can come in as minority equity capital subject to government CA Gautam Shah said FCRA provisions are being made more stringent to avoid any wrong doing. "A check list is being issued to NGOs whose registration were cancelled and are re-applying. Besides affidavits on media ownership, the CA and chief functionaries have to certify activity-wise receipts and payments, as well as income and expenditure accounts. So, NGOs must be careful in ensuring that funds received under FCRA are utilised for the purpose for which the certificate was issued."In some cases it could be a challenge for Section 8 companies following the accrual system under mercantile accounting to generate activity wise actual receipt and payment records. Under the new rules which became effective from January 2025, CAs, whose email address and few other details must be shared, have to certify whether NGOs they audit have violated any FCRA provisions.
Morocco World
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
Akhannouch's Deputy Sparks Uproar: ‘Leave Morocco' Comment Ignites Fury
Doha – A fiery statement by Zahra El Manchoudi, Deputy Mayor of Agadir and close ally of Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, has erupted into a political firestorm across the coastal city and throughout Moroccan social media. El Manchoudi, who serves as the ninth deputy to Akhannouch in his capacity as Agadir's Mayor and oversees cultural affairs for the council, delivered the inflammatory remarks during the May municipal council session while defending the administration's record. 'Those who like what we're doing, that's good. Those who don't like what we're doing can vacate Agadir and go to another city, or we can collect money for them to go somewhere else,' El Manchoudi declared, her words streaming live on the municipality's official Facebook page. The statement came as she praised Akhannouch's leadership and lashed out at critics of the National Rally of Independents (RNI)-led council. Her comments immediately went viral, triggering a tsunami of outrage from residents, activists, and opposition politicians. Civil society figures swiftly condemned the remarks. Some labeled her comments 'extremely dangerous' and particularly inappropriate given growing dissatisfaction with the council's handling of city affairs and ongoing infrastructure problems. Several critics demanded her immediate resignation, insisting any forthcoming apology would prove inadequate given the 'provocative' language she employed toward both constituents who voted for her and those who didn't. Community leaders expressed shock at the deputy's rhetoric, saying she should focus on revitalizing neighborhood centers that have lost their educational and developmental roles instead of making reckless statements with negative societal impact. Facing intense backlash, El Manchoudi posted a formal apology on her Facebook page the following day, attempting to contain the damage. 'During my speech at the Agadir municipal council session, I failed to express myself properly while responding to some voices that deliberately undervalue the important work our council is doing,' she wrote. 'I apologize to all Agadir residents for the words that came from me, which were not intended to offend or condescend to them.' She stressed her deep connection to the city. 'The beloved people of Agadir know me well and understand my love and appreciation for my city and its residents. I have always been dedicated to serving them even before entering politics, driven by my love for this dear city to develop it,' El Manchoudi emphasized. She concluded: 'I renew my apology to the dear people of Agadir and to everyone who felt offended by what I said, which was not meant to be presumptuous or hurtful. I confirm that I have been and continue to work to serve the interests of the city and my beloved country with full responsibility and seriousness.' Opposition figures step into the fray The incident has provided ammunition to opposition forces. Justice and Development Party (PJD) leaders and council members called the statement 'shocking and provocative,' stressing that such comments are 'unbecoming of an elected official in a city historically known for its traditions of coexistence and mutual respect.' Opposition figures further dismissed Akhannouch as the 'absent president,' claiming that he 'is only seen in ceremonial photos devoid of political and administrative meaning.' They insisted the controversy reflects deeper issues within the council's governance structure. 'This statement is not an isolated case but comes in the context of repeated discourse by some members of the governing bureau, a discourse saturated with gratuitous praise and built on denying the efforts of previous councils,' one opposition council member told local media. The controversy occurs amid growing tensions between the municipal council and various civil society components and political opposition, who criticize what they describe as 'weak interaction with citizens' complaints' and 'centralization of decisions in the hands of a narrow group of elected officials.' Meanwhile, council supporters defend El Manchoudi, arguing her comments came in an emotional context responding to 'systematic campaigns' aimed at undermining the council's work, which they say has initiated major urban infrastructure rehabilitation projects in recent years. Many critics pointed out that achievements cited by the council were largely the result of the royal program 'Agadir Urban Development Plan 2020-2024,' signed before the King on February 4, 2020, during the previous administration led by the PJD. The incident has reignited debate about responsible political discourse that respects citizens' intelligence and their right to question and criticize, viewing elected officials not as privileged but as entrusted with responsibilities requiring listening, openness, and humility. Read also: Conflict of Interest? Akhannouch Faces Backlash Over Desalination Deal Tags: Agadir mayorAziz Akhannouchbacklash
Morocco World
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Morocco World
Morocco Eyes Major Export Boost to Egypt, Targets $500 Million by 2027
Rabat – Morocco is set to dramatically increase its exports to Egypt, with officials projecting a jump from MAD 755 million ($75 million) to MAD 5 billion ($500 million) within the next three years. The ambitious goal comes after a high-stakes trade mission and signals a new phase in economic ties between the two North African nations. Omar Hejira, the Secretary of State in charge of Foreign Trade, revealed the forecast during a parliamentary session on Monday. He fielded a question from the National Rally of Independents (RNI) party, which sought updates on efforts to strengthen Morocco's export presence in Egypt. The push follows a recent visit by a 40-strong Moroccan trade delegation to Cairo, where executives and exporters held over 200 meetings with Egyptian counterparts. Hejira initiated the mission himself, with Moroccan Confederation of Exporters (ASMEX) President Hassan Sentissi El Idrissi at the helm of the delegation, whose sole goal to promote the 'Made in Morocco' label. The talks led to preliminary deals, with the two sides now working to finalize agreements in key sectors. The visit builds on recent talks with Egyptian officials. In April, the Egyptian ambassador visited ASMEX headquarters, followed by a successful 'Egypt Country Zoom' event where participants learned about market opportunities and how to dip their toes into the Egyptian market. During the parliamentary talks, Hejira also pointed to the automotive industry as a standout success story. Moroccan car exports to Egypt have already soared from just 400 units to 3,000, a figure that could climb to 5,000 by year's end and reach 8,000 by 2026. Calling Morocco-Egypt trade 'a model of Arab cooperation,' Hajira stressed the countries' historical bonds and mutual economic interests. The fivefold export expansion, if achieved, would mark a major milestone in Morocco's strategy to grow its African and Arab trade networks, and solidify its role as a key economic bridge between continents. Tags: economyMorocco exportsMorocco tradeMorocco-Egypttradetrade ties
