The Administrative Court in Rabat, Morocco, has ruled to cancel the election of Abd al-Kabir Akhsishen as a member of the National Press Council. This decision was made following a complaint filed by Amin al-Khayari, a journalist from the news site Hesprix. The court's ruling, led by Judge Abd al-Hayy Mansuri, accepted the complaint and annulled Akhsishen's election due to legal irregularities.
Akhsishen's election was contested on the grounds that he is a retired journalist, which contradicts the legal requirements for membership in the National Press Council. The complainant, Amin al-Khayari, argued that Akhsishen's candidacy was flawed due to his retired status and the lack of a signed work certificate from his former employer. The court found these arguments to be valid.
Amin al-Khayari's complaint highlighted several irregularities in Akhsishen's election, including the absence of a signed work certificate. The certificate submitted by Akhsishen was only stamped, not signed, which contravenes Article 426 of the Obligations and Contracts Law. This irregularity was a key factor in the court's decision to cancel Akhsishen's election.
With Akhsishen's election canceled, Amin al-Khayari assumes his seat on the National Press Council by force of law. Al-Khayari's candidacy was supported by several professional journalists at the national level. The National Press Council plays a crucial role in regulating the press and protecting journalists' rights in Morocco.
The court's decision was welcomed by many journalists and media professionals who had expressed concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. The ruling reinforces the importance of adhering to legal requirements and upholding the transparency and credibility of professional organizations like the National Press Council.
This case highlights the significance of judicial oversight in ensuring that professional organizations operate within the bounds of the law. The court's decision demonstrates its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens, including journalists and media professionals.
The cancellation of Akhsishen's election and the subsequent appointment of Amin al-Khayari to the National Press Council are expected to have implications for the Moroccan media landscape. The case underscores the need for accountability and transparency in the country's professional organizations and the importance of an independent judiciary in resolving disputes.
Key points
- Moroccan court cancels election of Abd al-Kabir Akhsishen to National Press Council due to legal irregularities.
- Amin al-Khayari assumes seat on National Press Council by force of law following court's decision.
- Case highlights importance of judicial oversight and adherence to legal requirements in professional organizations.
