The Moroccan prison authority, MGDPRI, has clarified that six out of 19 detainees in the "Akdim Izek" case began a hunger strike on September 23, after submitting formal notifications. The authority attributes the strike to directives from the Polisario Front and its allies, who oppose the Moroccan monarchy. This move comes ahead of a UN Security Council meeting on Morocco's territorial integrity.
According to MGDPRI, the hunger strike is not related to the detainees' prison conditions but rather a coordinated effort to draw attention to their cause. The authority notes that the strike coincides with media reports and statements from the Polisario Front and its supporters. MGDPRI emphasizes that the detainees receive proper medical care and have opportunities to pursue their education while incarcerated.
MGDPRI has previously addressed concerns about the detainees' prison conditions, highlighting the adequate living quarters and medical attention provided. The authority asserts that the detainees are treated similarly to other inmates, with no special privileges or hardships. The prisons where the detainees are held meet the required standards, according to MGDPRI.
One of the detainees' demands is to be transferred to prisons in Morocco's southern regions. However, MGDPRI explains that their sentences do not align with the classification of prisons in those areas, except for one case where a detainee was transferred to a prison in Laayoune. The authority maintains that it has taken steps to address the detainees' concerns and provide them with necessary facilities.
The "Akdim Izek" case refers to a group of individuals detained in connection with events related to Morocco's Western Sahara conflict. The case has garnered significant attention, with various parties expressing concerns about the detainees' treatment and rights. MGDPRI's statement aims to provide clarity on the situation and address allegations of mistreatment.
MGDPRI stresses that its statement is intended to provide an accurate account of the situation, countering a previous statement attributed to the detainees. The authority emphasizes its commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all inmates, while also ensuring public safety and security. The hunger strike by the six detainees highlights the ongoing tensions and complexities surrounding the "Akdim Izek" case.
The situation remains a sensitive issue, with various stakeholders closely monitoring developments. The UN Security Council's upcoming meeting on Morocco's territorial integrity is expected to shed more light on the matter. For now, the detainees continue their hunger strike, while MGDPRI maintains that it is providing them with necessary care and support.
Key points
- - The hunger strike by six detainees in the "Akdim Izek" case is attributed to directives from the Polisario Front and its allies. - Moroccan prison authority MGDPRI emphasizes that the strike is not related to prison conditions but rather a coordinated effort to draw attention to their cause. - The detainees' demand to be transferred to prisons in Morocco's southern regions was partially addressed, with one detainee transferred to a prison in Laayoune.
