Former Salafist Preacher Joins Moroccan Justice Ministry Amid Penal Code Reform Debate

It is in a context of tensions with his conservative critics that Ouahbi called on Abou Hafs, reports article19. The latter accuse him of wanting to legalize practices considered contrary to the principles of Islam and the values of society, such as extramarital relations or gender equality in inheritance matters.

The decision to integrate the former preacher into his team would stem from an intervention by the latter during a conference-debate, where he defended individual freedoms, which convinced the minister, the same source specifies.

Abou Hafs’ expertise in Islamic theology would be a significant asset for the Minister of Justice. Rafiki, thanks to his in-depth knowledge of religion and religious texts, could counter the arguments of the Islamists, particularly the PJD.