Rabat, Morocco – (African Boulevard News) – Taoufik Bouachrine, a prominent Moroccan journalist imprisoned since 2018, has alleged that he is a “victim of persecution,” according to his family.
Bouachrine, known for his critical reporting on Moroccan politics and society, has been imprisoned on charges of sexual assault, human trafficking, and conspiracy to undermine state security. He has repeatedly denied the charges and claimed that they are politically motivated.
His family visited him in prison on Thursday and expressed concern over his well-being. In a statement, they said that Bouachrine is suffering from “ill-treatment” from the prison administration and that his health is deteriorating.
“We are worried about Taoufik’s health and his safety in prison,” they said. “He is being kept in inhumane conditions and is not receiving adequate medical care. We call on the authorities to immediately release him.”
The case of Bouachrine has drawn international attention, with human rights organizations and press freedom groups calling on the Moroccan government to ensure a fair trial and respect for his rights.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has described his trial as a “parody of justice” and a “political trial,” and has called for his release.
“Taoufik Bouachrine is a victim of persecution because of his critical reporting on Moroccan politics and society,” said Arnaud Froger, the head of RSF’s Africa desk. “His detention is a glaring example of the Moroccan authorities’ crackdown on press freedom and political dissent.”
Amnesty International has also urged Moroccan authorities to ensure a fair trial for Bouachrine and respect for his rights.
“The Moroccan authorities must respect Bouachrine’s due process rights and ensure that he is not subjected to torture or other ill-treatment,” said Amnesty’s North Africa Campaigns Director, Najia Bounaim.
Morocco has been accused of cracking down on dissent and press freedom in recent years, with journalists, activists, and opposition figures being arrested and imprisoned on charges ranging from terrorism to defamation.
The case of Bouachrine has become a symbol of the government’s crackdown on independent journalism and political dissent. His family and supporters say that he is being punished for speaking truth to power and exposing corruption and abuses of power in Moroccan society.
