Un rapper din Maroc, condamnat la un an de închisoare pentru insulte aduse poliției
Rapper Moroccan Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Insulting Police
A Moroccan rapper has been sentenced to a year behind bars after being accused of insulting law enforcement in a social media video, as reported by dpa on Tuesday.
Court Ruling in Sale
The ruling against Mohamed Mounir, who is popularly known as Gnawi, was issued on Monday by a court in Sale, a city located in northwestern Morocco.
Arrest and Charges
Mounir, aged 31, was taken into custody on November 1 after he streamed a live video on social media, where he expressed his grievances about police mistreatment using explicit language.
Concerns Over Motivations Behind the Trial
One of Mounir’s attorneys, Mohamed Sadkou, voiced concerns that the trial may be influenced by a previous song recorded by Mounir along with two other rappers, which addresses social justice and corruption within the kingdom.
The track „Aacha al-Chaab” gained significant traction online, amassing approximately 16 million views on YouTube.
Support from Fans
Supporters of Mounir gathered outside the courthouse, chanting slogans demanding his release.
Possibility of Appeal
The verdict delivered on Monday is subject to appeal.
International Response
Amnesty International has condemned the ruling, labeling it as „shameful.”
Heba Morayef, the organization’s director for the Middle East and North Africa, stated, „Peaceful expression of criticism towards the police or authorities should not be considered a crime.”
He further emphasized that international law safeguards the right to freedom of expression, even when the views expressed may be shocking or offensive.
Source: Glow Magazine
