King Mohammed VI Grants Pardon to 1,304 Convicts on Independence Manifesto Day

Saturday 11 January 2025 - 07:33

By: Dakir Madiha

King Mohammed VI Grants Pardon to 1,304 Convicts on Independence Manifesto Day

Morocco's King Mohammed VI has commemorated the 81st anniversary of the nation's Independence Manifesto by granting royal pardons to 1,304 individuals, marking a significant gesture on this historic national holiday.

The Ministry of Justice announced that the pardons encompass both incarcerated individuals and those on bail across various courts throughout the country. Among the 948 currently imprisoned beneficiaries, 33 will receive complete forgiveness of their remaining sentences, while 915 others will see their sentences reduced.

The royal clemency extends beyond prison walls, reaching 356 individuals who are not in detention. Of these, 62 will have their sentences or remaining time forgiven entirely. The decree also addresses financial penalties: 15 individuals will have their prison terms pardoned while retaining fine obligations, 260 will see their fines dismissed, and 19 will benefit from both prison sentence and fine pardons.

This act of clemency continues a deeply rooted tradition in Morocco, where royal pardons typically coincide with significant national occasions and religious celebrations. The timing of these pardons holds particular significance, as January 11th marks the anniversary of the Independence Manifesto's presentation in 1944.

The Independence Manifesto represents a pivotal moment in Morocco's path to sovereignty. Following more than three decades under French protectorate rule, established in 1912, the Independence Party presented this crucial document to French authorities. The manifesto articulated three fundamental demands: the termination of the protectorate system, the restoration of complete Moroccan sovereignty, and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.

The document, bearing the signatures of party leadership, catalyzed a more cohesive and widespread independence movement throughout Morocco. Today, the anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of the nation's journey toward self-determination and celebrates the courage of those who advocated for Morocco's freedom.