Moroccan YouTuber Jailed for Criticizing Government, Price Hikes

This arrest follows accusations of offending the constants and symbols of the Moroccan state. The authorities reacted following a video posted on social networks where El Jouk criticized the rise in prices and the high cost of living in Morocco, remarks deemed offensive to the state.

The video in question, which has been viewed tens of thousands of times, does not seem to have pleased the authorities. This arrest comes as Naïma El Jouk had already had legal troubles in the past. Her mother, who says she is deeply affected, has launched an appeal to King Mohammed VI, imploring his clemency and evoking the precarious state of health and mental fragility of her daughter, whom she considers unaware of the consequences of her statements.

According to the Moroccan Penal Code, offenses against the person of the king, the crown prince or any member of the royal family are punishable by a prison sentence of one to five years and a fine of up to one thousand dirhams (Article 179). In addition, Article 263 establishes penalties for any insult to members of the judiciary, public officials or law enforcement, including variable prison sentences and fines.