The Moroccan Human Rights Association, branch of Al-Ataouia – Tamallalt, has issued a statement denouncing the unjust sentences handed down against the youth of Douar Ouled Rami by the Court of First Instance in Qal'at al-Sraghna on April 9, 2026. The association emphasized that protesting is not a crime, highlighting their deep concern and dissatisfaction regarding the severe judgments against those who peacefully protested against the establishment of a stone-crushing plant near their homes. Such a facility poses a significant risk to the community's economic, social, health, and environmental stability.
According to the statement, the court sentenced the accused individuals to one year of imprisonment each, alongside a fine of 2000 dirhams. Furthermore, the court mandated that the convicted individuals pay 25,000 dirhams in civil compensation to the Moroccan state, represented by the Prime Minister, and 5,000 dirhams to the company Miara Brika, among other civil claims. The harshness of these sentences appears to be intended to intimidate protestors and suppress their right to peaceful assembly, particularly against a project they view as detrimental to their community.
It is important to note that the accused were arrested hours before the protests escalated, and one of the defendants was taking university exams during the confrontations. In light of these developments, the association declares the following to the local and national public: their rejection of the unjust sentences against the youth of Douar Ouled Rami, their unconditional support for the detainees and their families, a demand for their immediate release, and the cessation of all legal proceedings against the other residents. Additionally, they call on responsible authorities to conduct a transparent and fair investigation into the circumstances surrounding this quarry case, which is shrouded in suspicion, and to impose appropriate penalties.
The association expresses gratitude to the defense team for their support of the detainees and urges all human rights and democratic organizations to unite efforts to expose all violations and abuses, support detainees and their families, and work towards the protection of rights and freedoms. In conclusion, the Moroccan Human Rights Association, branch of Al-Ataouia – Tamallalt, strongly condemns the arbitrary arrests and reiterates its commitment to advocate for justice for the victims and to defend their dignity and rights.
As reported by marrakechalyaoum.com.
