Morocco's Justice Minister, Abdellatif Ouahbi, has expressed concerns over the country's low collection rate for court fines and traffic violations. Despite efforts to improve enforcement, the state struggles to recover around MAD 50 billion ($5.1 billion) in fines each year. Ouahbi presented possible measures to address the problem during a session at the House of Councillors. The proposals aim to improve the collection of outstanding fines.
One proposed measure would require individuals to settle their outstanding fines before selling a vehicle. Authorities could also block a vehicle registration card until its owner pays the money owed. This approach would enable motorists to pay their fines at the same office where they complete their administrative procedures. The goal is to simplify the process and make it more efficient.
Ouahbi also suggested linking fine payments to annual vehicle tax payments. Additionally, he raised the possibility of requiring people to pay their outstanding fines before obtaining a passport. The minister is discussing these proposals with several state institutions to find ways to enforce the payments. The aim is to implement effective measures to boost fine collection.
The minister noted that authorities have already tried to improve collection by providing resources to enforcement officers. These efforts included offering financial compensation and introducing an electronic system to support their work. However, these measures have not resolved the problem, and the collection rate remains extremely low. Ouahbi emphasized the need for more effective solutions.
Ouahbi also called for better enforcement of court judgments after the legal deadlines expire. He proposed giving officials compensation for enforcing these rulings, which would provide them with additional income while helping the state recover outstanding fines. Court-ordered financial penalties and traffic violations are major areas where authorities struggle to collect the money owed.
However, Ouahbi acknowledged that stricter collection measures could create difficulties for people who cannot afford to pay. He stressed the need to consider vulnerable citizens when designing new procedures. Authorities must find solutions that distinguish between people who can readily pay their debts and those who genuinely struggle to afford them.
The minister emphasized that any approach to recovering public money must also consider the circumstances of those with limited financial means. The goal is to implement fair and effective measures that balance the need for fine collection with the need to protect vulnerable citizens. The proposals will continue to be discussed and refined.
Key points
- Morocco's Justice Minister proposes linking unpaid fines to vehicle sales and passport applications
- The state struggles to collect around MAD 50 billion ($5.1 billion) in fines each year
- Authorities aim to implement fair and effective measures to boost fine collection while protecting vulnerable citizens
