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Urgent Call for Death Penalty Abolition: CNDH Advocates for Reform in Morocco

Friday 11 - 10:20

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In a compelling statement made during a press conference today, Amina Bouayach, the President of the National Council for Human Rights (CNDH), emphasized the pressing need for the abolition of the death penalty in Morocco. This address coincided with World Day Against the Death Penalty, which this year spotlighted the theme, "The Death Penalty Protects No One." Bouayach articulated her deep concerns regarding the psychological and social consequences of the existing moratorium on capital punishment, which, despite being in place, remains legally sanctioned.

Bouayach underscored the urgency of addressing the prolonged uncertainty faced by death row inmates and their families. "The death penalty does not protect anyone," she asserted, highlighting that its enforcement offers no real comfort to the families of victims or society at large.

Reaffirming the CNDH's commitment to ending this practice, she noted that the inherent right to life serves as the cornerstone of all other rights. Bouayach called on lawmakers to align legal frameworks with Article 20 of the Moroccan Constitution and the international treaties ratified by Morocco, reinforcing the CNDH's intention to advocate clearly for the termination of the death penalty in its advisory opinions on criminal matters.

The CNDH aims to foster a robust dialogue surrounding human rights, particularly in questioning the legitimacy of capital punishment. Bouayach also recognized the role of non-state actors, particularly entrepreneurs, in this movement, as they leverage their influence and resources to effect meaningful societal change. Nadia Benhida, coordinator of the Network of Entrepreneurs Against the Death Penalty (RECPM), expressed gratitude for the CNDH's active involvement, declaring the event a pivotal moment each year in commemorating the fight against capital punishment.

The conference was attended by various ambassadors and members of the diplomatic community in Rabat, along with representatives from national and international human rights organizations. According to the official CNDH website, "The death penalty constitutes a grave violation of human rights and a deprivation of the right to life, which is an inherent and absolute right for every human being. It is, in fact, a fundamental condition for the exercise of all other rights."

The CNDH's advocacy efforts include its memorandum submitted on October 28, 2019, regarding Bill No. 10.16, which seeks to amend the Penal Code by recommending the abolition of the death penalty. The ongoing dialogue around this critical issue underscores the importance of aligning Morocco's legal practices with international human rights standards and the values enshrined in its own Constitution.