On Thursday, October 1, 2026, the surroundings of the Tangier Court of Appeal witnessed the transfer of Tangier's mayor, Monir Al-Limouri, to prison. This followed a decision by the investigating judge to place him in pre-trial detention in connection with a case involving voting documents linked to the legislative elections. Al-Limouri, a prominent figure in the Authenticity and Modernity Party, was transferred after being referred to the investigating judge in a state of arrest.
The mayor's arrest came after the expiration of his theoretical custody period at the Tangier police headquarters, which began on Monday, September 28, 2026, upon his return to Morocco from the Spanish city of Malaga. The Public Prosecutor's Office at the Tangier Court of Appeal announced that it had requested an investigation into those involved, to be conducted under pre-trial detention, on charges of violating electoral processes and participating in fraud.
According to a statement by the King's Attorney General, the investigation involved two individuals, one of whom was Al-Limouri. The second suspect, an accountant at a company, allegedly participated in marking a political party symbol on voting papers at the request of his employer. Technical expertise, including the examination of phone data, revealed connections with individuals previously arrested in the case.
The case dates back to the voting day, September 23, 2026, when a person was caught carrying a bag containing voting papers near a polling station at the Al-Quds school in Tangier. Initial investigations led to the arrest of five suspects, including the heads of two polling stations and their deputies. The investigation later expanded to include Al-Limouri.
The Public Prosecutor's Office stated that it would monitor the investigation to ensure the necessary procedures were followed, in line with its commitment to strict application of the law. The authorities aim to uncover the full extent of the irregularities and hold those responsible accountable.
Monir Al-Limouri's arrest has garnered significant attention in Tangier and beyond, given his stature as the city's mayor and a leading figure in his party. The case raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process in Morocco and the measures in place to prevent such irregularities.
As the investigation continues, the authorities are expected to reveal more details about the alleged irregularities and the extent of Al-Limouri's involvement. The case may have implications for the local political landscape and the upcoming elections in Morocco.
Key points
- Moroccan authorities arrest Tangier Mayor Monir Al-Limouri on allegations of electoral irregularities.
- The case involves voting documents linked to the legislative elections and allegations of fraud.
- The investigation is ongoing, with the Public Prosecutor's Office monitoring the procedures to ensure a strict application of the law.
