Morocco's Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi, announced on October 25, 2026, that 22,315 search warrants tied to forced repayment have been cancelled. This move is part of a broader review of cases under the country's revised penal code. The cancellations affect individuals who were subject to search warrants due to unpaid debts. The review aims to ensure that those affected are treated fairly and in accordance with new legal provisions.
The annulled search warrants targeted individuals under 20 or over 60 years old. Additionally, the execution of forced repayment for 3,991 detained individuals has been cancelled following a review of their cases, considering their age and the nature of the debts owed. These measures have regularized the situations of nearly 26,000 people. This was achieved through either the cancellation of search warrants or the lifting of forced repayment for those in detention.
Morocco's new Code of Penal Procedure includes provisions that limit the use of forced repayment. Specifically, it excludes debts below 8,000 dirhams and protects individuals under 20 or over 60 years old from forced repayment. These changes reflect a shift towards a more nuanced approach to debt recovery, prioritizing the rights and circumstances of individuals.
A new electronic platform has been established to facilitate the settlement of forced repayment cases. This platform, developed in coordination with the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) and the Royal Gendarmerie, aims to simplify procedures for individuals, particularly those stopped during travel due to outstanding search warrants. The platform allows for the consultation of cases and payment of debts without needing to refer back to the court that issued the decision.
The platform addresses procedural difficulties that previously hindered individuals, especially at airports and ports. By enabling the direct settlement of debts through the platform, individuals can now more easily resolve their cases. This development is expected to reduce the number of cases and alleviate the challenges faced by those affected by forced repayment.
Minister Ouahbi's announcement highlights the government's efforts to reform the justice system and protect citizens' rights. The review of forced repayment cases and the implementation of the new penal code provisions demonstrate a commitment to fairness and transparency. The electronic platform is a key component of this reform, streamlining processes and enhancing accessibility for those involved.
The reforms aim to balance the need for debt recovery with the protection of individual rights. By setting clear guidelines and exclusions, the Moroccan government seeks to create a more equitable system. The impact of these changes will be closely watched, as they may serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges in their justice systems.
Key points
- Morocco has annulled over 22,000 search warrants linked to forced repayment as part of a review of cases under new penal code provisions.
