In a recent statement, Mohamed Saleh Tamalt, a Moroccan official and former Delegate General for Prison Administration and Reintegration, strongly responded to allegations made by journalist Suleiman Al-Raisouni. Tamalt described Al-Raisouni's claims as "lies and fabrications." He expressed his dismay at the journalist's attempts to gain attention and profit from spreading false information, even if it meant compromising the ethics of journalism.
Al-Raisouni has been involved in several controversies, including a criminal record for rape. Tamalt accused him of making up stories and events to attract viewers and boost his online presence. The journalist has allegedly made false claims about several high-profile individuals, including the late Moroccan national icon, Abdel Rahman Al-Youssi. Tamalt stated that Al-Raisouni has no qualms about lying about the deceased, as they cannot refute his claims.
Tamalt specifically addressed Al-Raisouni's claims that he was mistreated while in prison. The journalist alleged that he was filmed while being restrained and that the prison wing he was in was managed by individuals outside of the prison administration. However, Tamalt disputed these claims, stating that the video footage was released to counter Al-Raisouni's false claims that he was no longer able to walk or move after going on a hunger strike.
Tamalt also took issue with Al-Raisouni's assertion that he was a member of the National Territorial Surveillance Directorate. While Tamalt has held various positions, including serving as the head of the General Delegation for Prison Administration and Reintegration, he denied ever being part of the surveillance directorate. He expressed that if he had the opportunity to work in this field, he would do so, given its importance in serving the nation.
The public feud between Tamalt and Al-Raisouni has raised concerns about the state of journalism in Morocco. Tamalt described Al-Raisouni's actions as "cowardly" and accused him of targeting respectable individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving the country. He emphasized that such behavior will not be tolerated and that those who engage in it will be held accountable.
Tamalt concluded his statement by quoting the poet Al-Mutanabbi, "If my detractors come from someone with shortcomings, it is a testament to my completeness." This response highlights the ongoing tensions between the two individuals and raises questions about the role of journalism in Moroccan society. The controversy surrounding Al-Raisouni's claims and Tamalt's response is likely to continue to unfold in the coming days.
Key points in this story include Tamalt's denial of Al-Raisouni's claims, the journalist's history of making false allegations, and the implications of their public feud for Moroccan journalism.
Key points
- Mohamed Saleh Tamalt denies Suleiman Al-Raisouni's allegations, calling them "lies and fabrications."
- Al-Raisouni has a history of making false claims and has been involved in several controversies, including a criminal record for rape.
- The public feud between Tamalt and Al-Raisouni raises concerns about the state of journalism in Morocco.
