Moroccan Actress Karima Gouit Sentenced to Two Months in Prison for Insulting Public Official

Tuesday 03 December 2024 - 08:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Moroccan Actress Karima Gouit Sentenced to Two Months in Prison for Insulting Public Official

The First Instance Court of Marrakech has handed Moroccan actress Karima Gouit a two-month prison sentence, along with a fine of MAD 500 ($50) and additional legal fees. Furthermore, the court ordered her to pay MAD 5,000 ($500) in damages to the civil plaintiff.

The charges stemmed from an incident at Marrakech Menara Airport, where Gouit was accused of insulting a public official performing their duties. Initially charged with “insulting the judicial police,” the Public Prosecutor later amended the charges to “insulting a public official in the line of duty.”

Following the incident, Gouit was released on bail of MAD 5,000 ($500). According to lawyer Abderrazak Kouti, the potential penalties under Article 263 of the Moroccan Penal Code ranged from one month to one year of imprisonment and fines between MAD 250 ($25) and MAD 5,000 ($500). The penalty could increase to two years if the insult was accompanied by physical violence.

The case has sparked widespread debate on social media. Some users supported the police, emphasizing the importance of respecting public officials and stating that such behavior crosses a "red line." Others criticized what they viewed as a particularly difficult year for artists, suggesting that fame and wealth often lead to a sense of entitlement.

One user sarcastically commented, "Go join Dounia Batma in prison," referencing another artist currently serving a sentence.

The case reflects ongoing tensions between public figures and legal authorities in Morocco, with some viewing it as a cautionary tale about accountability and respect for the rule of law.