Latest news with #TransparencyMaroc
Morocco World
4 days ago
- Politics
- Morocco World
Moroccan NGOs Sound Alarm over Legal Reforms, Threaten UN Action
A coalition of Moroccan civil society organizations has raised alarm over proposed legal amendments that they say would weaken their role in fighting corruption and defending public funds. In response, the coalition has announced plans to escalate the issue to the United Nations. At a press conference held Wednesday at the headquarters of Transparency Maroc, the group denounced two articles — Article 3 and Article 7 — of a draft reform to the Code of Criminal Procedure. The changes, already approved by the first chamber of Parliament– House of Representatives– would restrict NGOs from filing legal complaints in financial crime cases and set new conditions for launching public legal actions in cases involving public funds. The associations warned that these measures amount to a serious threat to democratic transparency and public accountability. They announced a sit-in protest to be held in front of Parliament on July 1st and vowed to bring the matter before the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) if the second chamber — the House of Councillors – does not amend the proposed law. 'This is a dangerous regression,' said Ahmed Bernoussi, deputy secretary general of Transparency Maroc. 'It aims to neutralize the essential role civil society plays in fighting impunity and protecting public resources.' Another prominent voice, Abdelilah Benabdeslam, coordinator of the Moroccan Collective of Human Rights Organisations, said they are preparing a formal complaint to the UNODC, the body that oversees the UN Convention against Corruption, ratified by Morocco. 'If all national options are exhausted, we will escalate it to the UN's regional office for the Middle East and North Africa,' he said. The group also warned of broader risks if the amendments pass—including damage to Morocco's international reputation, reduced investor confidence, and rising unemployment. In the meantime, they are urging members of the second chamber of Parliament to reject the bill and are appealing to 'responsible voices within the majority' to intervene. At the heart of the controversy are Articles 3 and 7 of the proposed reform. Article 3 introduces strict conditions for initiating legal action in cases involving public funds—effectively limiting the ability of prosecutors to investigate financial crimes unless referrals come from high-level institutions like the court of auditors. Article 7 imposes new hurdles for associations, requiring them to meet restrictive criteria before they can act as civil parties in corruption cases. Critics say this would block NGOs from filing complaints in the public interest, stripping them of a crucial oversight role they have long played in exposing embezzlement and illicit enrichment. The Moroccan government insists that the proposed reforms are designed simply to streamline and clarify judicial procedures, specifically by centralizing the authority to initiate corruption investigations within designated official bodies like the Attorney General at the Court of Cassation and the Court of Auditors. In defence of the proposal, Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi explained that the aim is not to sideline civil society, but to restore legal order and prevent misuse of the justice system by ensuring that legal action must be based on a credible foundation. 'This is not a ban, it's a regulation,' said Ouahbi to Parliament. '[This] helps strengthen the effectiveness of public action and avoid reckless prosecutions.' NGOs strongly disagree, asserting that the true aim is to silence civil society and diminish oversight. They argue the restrictions effectively shield public officials from accountability and mark a worrying move away from transparency. The new legal changes risk going against Morocco's commitment to strengthen public oversight and support the role of civil society in fighting corruption—commitments it adopted in 2007 by ratifying the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
Morocco World
15-05-2025
- Morocco World
Moroccan Professor Arrested for Reportedly Selling University Degrees
Rabat — A Moroccan court in Marrakech reportedly ordered the arrest of a university professor in Agadir at the local Oudaya prison in Marrakech on Tuesday. The order was issued following an investigation into the professor's involvement in a master's degree registration scandal. The investigating judge overseeing financial crimes at the Marrakech court of appeals issued the detention order after allegations emerged that the professor was selling university diplomas and certificates for money. The decision came following a thorough investigation into the case by the National Judicial Police Brigade. In addition to the professor, several other suspects are reportedly involved and went before the King's Attorney General at the same Court. Reports indicate that the attorney then referred the case to the investigating judge of the Third Chamber responsible for financial crimes. The scandal, which has shaken both academic and political circles, extends beyond just the university professor, as the case involves other suspects, including public officials. Some of the suspects have been released pending trial, but under strict precautionary measures, including the confiscation of their passports and travel bans preventing them from leaving Moroccan territory. Read also: Transparency Maroc Denounces Sextortion in Moroccan Universities Local media also reported that the list of suspects involved in this case includes prominent lawyers, university officials' children, and local elected representatives. More revelations are expected as investigations are underway in order to identify other potential members of this network that essentially turned master's degree programs into a marketplace. Not the first of its kind This is not the first time a similar university scandal in Morocco has made headlines. The incident brings to the surface the 'Sex for Grades' scandal from 2022. In this case, several Hassan I University professors were arrested in Settat, found guilty of sexually harassing female students in exchange for academic incentives. The 'Sex for Grades' scandals shook several universities and higher education institutions across Morocco. Students, NGOs, and the government took action against the problematic practice of unethically misusing power for personal gain. Tags: Degree fraudmoroccan universityUniversity professor
Morocco World
23-04-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
Transparency Maroc: CNSS Data Breach Exposes Critical Flaws in Morocco's Cybersecurity
Doha – Transparency Maroc issued a statement on Monday expressing 'profound concern' over the massive data leak from the National Social Security Fund (CNSS), which has compromised the personal information of nearly two million individuals and approximately 500,000 registered businesses. 'The cyberattacks have led to widespread leaks of critical personal data in several government agencies, including the Ministry of Employment and the National Social Security Fund,' the anti-corruption watchdog stated. 'These leaks could destabilize and threaten social and national peace.' The NGO cautioned that this represents a grave violation, as 'the Constitution guarantees the protection of data, regulated by law 09-08 relating to the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data.' The organization criticized the inadequate response from the affected institutions, pointing out they chose 'threat and intimidation' instead of reassuring users and offering apologies. 'The ministers concerned who chair the boards of directors have not made themselves heard,' Transparency Maroc noted. The data breach, which occurred earlier this month, is considered Morocco's most substantial cybersecurity incident to date. The attack exposed highly sensitive personal information including full names, national ID numbers, passport details, email addresses, phone numbers, salary information, and banking credentials. According to cybersecurity experts, the breach reveals serious vulnerabilities in the country's digital infrastructure. Outdated systems, inadequate staff training, and insufficient governance frameworks have all contributed to creating an environment where such attacks can succeed. Transparency Maroc has called for greater accountability and transparency regarding the incident. The organization is demanding public disclosure about 'the strategy of public authorities regarding information systems security' and the quality of personal data protection at the national level. Read also: Kaspersky: Morocco Ranks High Among Top Targets for Cyberattacks in Africa The anti-corruption group has also demanded the revelation of 'those responsible who authorized certain service providers to perform consulting, assistance, training, software and security hardware sales in addition to the audit mission, which constitutes an obvious conflict of interest.' Additionally, it sought information about 'the results of the tender offer No. 15/2021, dated August 2021, related to supporting the National Social Security Fund in complying with the requirements of Law 09-08,' which they noted should have been legally published on the Fund's website. Experts point out that the breach highlights the urgent need for comprehensive cybersecurity measures. Regular security audits, staff awareness programs, and robust data classification systems are essential components of an effective defense strategy. The implementation of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence-based threat detection systems, could also help prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of Morocco's cybersecurity infrastructure despite the country's reputation for having strong digital defenses. While the General Directorate of Information Systems Security (DGSSI) and the National Commission for the Control of Personal Data Protection (CNDP) have been praised for their work in establishing regulatory frameworks and raising awareness, the breach demonstrates that crucial vulnerabilities remain. Transparency Maroc concluded its statement by calling on 'the government to publish the results of investigations into these important matters with full transparency in the interest of all concerned parties.'
Ya Biladi
18-02-2025
- General
- Ya Biladi
Post-earthquake reconstruction efforts in Morocco slow-paced, report laments
مدة القراءة: 3' 2,946 people were killed, 5,674 were injured, and 2.8 million others in 3,000 villages were affected by the devastating earthquake that struck the High Atlas regions of Morocco on September 8, 2023. Shortly after the tragedy, the government reacted by mobilizing the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) and other state actors to ensure emergency housing. Temporary relocation arrangements were put in place—an effort praised by some local actors—but since then, the coverage and quality of the solutions provided have proven insufficient, according to the annual report of Transparency Maroc. Despite the cold winter and heavy snowfall this year, many victims still have to cope with limited resources and means to protect themselves. Armed with its stated commitments, the state had announced an Integrated Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Program for the period 2024-2028, with a colossal budget of 120 billion dirhams. This program was intended to cover several areas: housing reconstruction, infrastructure rehabilitation, improving access to remote areas, and reviving local economic activities. However, Transparency Maroc notes that during the first year, public action fell short of expectations and stated promises. An ambitious reconstruction program poorly executed One of the main shortcomings of the Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Program is the abnormally slow pace of reconstruction. One year after the earthquake, disbursement rates remained very low—22% for the third tranche and just 3% for the fourth tranche of the program—while ongoing delays at construction sites continued to hinder the effective delivery of aid. Added to that, the high inflation of construction materials and transportation costs heavily weigh on the realization of projects. The government quickly adopted several legislative texts and decrees to manage the crisis. The creation of the «Special Fund for the Management of Earthquake Effects» (Fund 126) and the establishment of the High Atlas Development Agency (ADHA) were among the key measures. However, the ADHA, which was supposed to serve as the operational body responsible for implementing the program, was still not fully operational more than a year after the earthquake. Its Director General was only appointed in October 2024. The report also highlights the absence of a participatory approach. Strategic decisions, made within a few days in urgency, do not seem to have integrated consultations with local actors and the affected population. This lack of consultation contributes to a disconnection between the announced measures and the realities on the ground, increasing the frustration of the victims. Opacity and reduced access to information Another major point of Transparency Maroc's criticism concerns the transparency of public action. Data related to budget management—though presented as overall figures—remains opaque and difficult to verify. The observatory deplores the lack of regular publication of detailed reports on the use of allocated funds, preventing citizens from accessing information. This communication problem fuels a sense of injustice among the affected populations, who are often left unaware of the disbursed amounts and the criteria used for allocating aid. Beyond the figures and administrative delays, the report highlights the dramatic social impact of the earthquake. The slow pace of reconstruction has sparked a protest movement among the victims. Beyond material hardships, the consequences for education and healthcare are deeply felt. Promises to relocate thousands of students and rehabilitate school facilities have not been fulfilled, leaving the 2023-2024 school year in these areas as a «lost year», particularly for middle and high school students. In the healthcare sector, the lack of operational facilities in the affected areas exposes populations to heightened risks. Finally, the report laments that the reconstruction process is largely being carried out using concrete, contrary to royal directives advocating for buildings that reflect the region's heritage. According to official assessments, the road rehabilitation program is progressing, particularly on Road N7, thanks to funding from Fund 126. However, the Observatory has been unable to verify this data through the public procurement portal. Additionally, the distribution of direct aid has been generally successful, despite complaints about the remoteness of bank branches and high transfer fees. To date, the disbursed budget amounts to 1.7 billion dirhams. In conclusion, the citizen observation report, based on official documents and field testimonies, calls for a reevaluation of governance mechanisms and a more transparent, participatory approach to mobilization.
Ya Biladi
18-02-2025
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
Post-earthquake reconstruction efforts in Morocco slow-paced, report laments
2,946 people were killed, 5,674 were injured, and 2.8 million others in 3,000 villages were affected by the devastating earthquake that struck the High Atlas regions of Morocco on September 8, 2023. Shortly after the tragedy, the government reacted by mobilizing the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) and other state actors to ensure emergency housing. Temporary relocation arrangements were put in place—an effort praised by some local actors—but since then, the coverage and quality of the solutions provided have proven insufficient, according to the annual report of Transparency Maroc. Despite the cold winter and heavy snowfall this year, many victims still have to cope with limited resources and means to protect themselves. Armed with its stated commitments, the state had announced an Integrated Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Program for the period 2024-2028, with a colossal budget of 120 billion dirhams. This program was intended to cover several areas: housing reconstruction, infrastructure rehabilitation, improving access to remote areas, and reviving local economic activities. However, Transparency Maroc notes that during the first year, public action fell short of expectations and stated promises. An ambitious reconstruction program poorly executed One of the main shortcomings of the Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Program is the abnormally slow pace of reconstruction. One year after the earthquake, disbursement rates remained very low—22% for the third tranche and just 3% for the fourth tranche of the program—while ongoing delays at construction sites continued to hinder the effective delivery of aid. Added to that, the high inflation of construction materials and transportation costs heavily weigh on the realization of projects. The government quickly adopted several legislative texts and decrees to manage the crisis. The creation of the «Special Fund for the Management of Earthquake Effects» (Fund 126) and the establishment of the High Atlas Development Agency (ADHA) were among the key measures. However, the ADHA, which was supposed to serve as the operational body responsible for implementing the program, was still not fully operational more than a year after the earthquake. Its Director General was only appointed in October 2024. The report also highlights the absence of a participatory approach. Strategic decisions, made within a few days in urgency, do not seem to have integrated consultations with local actors and the affected population. This lack of consultation contributes to a disconnection between the announced measures and the realities on the ground, increasing the frustration of the victims. Opacity and reduced access to information Another major point of Transparency Maroc's criticism concerns the transparency of public action. Data related to budget management—though presented as overall figures—remains opaque and difficult to verify. The observatory deplores the lack of regular publication of detailed reports on the use of allocated funds, preventing citizens from accessing information. This communication problem fuels a sense of injustice among the affected populations, who are often left unaware of the disbursed amounts and the criteria used for allocating aid. Beyond the figures and administrative delays, the report highlights the dramatic social impact of the earthquake. The slow pace of reconstruction has sparked a protest movement among the victims. Beyond material hardships, the consequences for education and healthcare are deeply felt. Promises to relocate thousands of students and rehabilitate school facilities have not been fulfilled, leaving the 2023-2024 school year in these areas as a «lost year», particularly for middle and high school students. In the healthcare sector, the lack of operational facilities in the affected areas exposes populations to heightened risks. Finally, the report laments that the reconstruction process is largely being carried out using concrete, contrary to royal directives advocating for buildings that reflect the region's heritage. According to official assessments, the road rehabilitation program is progressing, particularly on Road N7, thanks to funding from Fund 126. However, the Observatory has been unable to verify this data through the public procurement portal. Additionally, the distribution of direct aid has been generally successful, despite complaints about the remoteness of bank branches and high transfer fees. To date, the disbursed budget amounts to 1.7 billion dirhams. In conclusion, the citizen observation report, based on official documents and field testimonies, calls for a reevaluation of governance mechanisms and a more transparent, participatory approach to mobilization.
