Maroc: journalist Ali Lmrabet detained again as authorities escalate pressure

Prominent Franco-Moroccan journalist Ali Lmrabet was detained upon arrival at Tanger Airport on July 12, then transferred to Casablanca where he was placed in police custody. Authorities have charged him with “presumed dissemination of false information” and “allegedly harming constitutional institutions.”

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has condemned the move, calling for his immediate release. In a statement, the organisation described the arrest as “deeply concerning” and accused authorities of using the judiciary to silence critical voices.

The journalist was traveling from Spain for personal administrative matters when he was intercepted. Prosecutors allege multiple outstanding warrants linked to alleged defamatory digital publications targeting individuals and state bodies. His detention follows a pattern of judicial harassment against Lmrabet, who has long been a vocal critic of Moroccan governance.

A lifetime defending press freedom

Lmrabet is a pioneering figure in Moroccan independent journalism. He founded the now-defunct Demain Magazine and Doumane, two publications known for their uncompromising coverage of political and social issues. His career has been marked by repeated clashes with authorities, including a 2003 conviction for “insulting the king” that led to a four-year prison sentence—later commuted after a royal pardon.

In 2005, he was banned from practicing journalism in Morocco following another conviction for “defamation.” Undeterred, he continued his work from exile in France and Spain, where he has resided for years. His reporting on sensitive topics—including security and governance—has earned him international recognition. In 2014, RSF listed him among its “100 Information Heroes” for his unwavering commitment to press freedom. He also maintains an active online presence through a YouTube channel where he analyses current events.

Despite multiple attempts by Moroccan authorities to pursue legal action against him in Spanish and French courts over the past two decades, all cases were dismissed. His wife, Laura Feliu, has stated that he has visited Morocco several times for family reasons without incident in recent years.

Morocco’s press freedom ranking and ongoing concerns

Morocco currently ranks 105th out of 180 countries in RSF’s 2026 World Press Freedom Index, reflecting persistent challenges for independent journalism in the country. The latest detention of Lmrabet underscores concerns about the shrinking space for critical reporting and the weaponisation of legal proceedings against dissenting voices.

RSF has reiterated its call for the charges against Lmrabet to be dropped and for his immediate release, emphasising that journalism is not a crime.