Lawyers’ strike extended indefinitely amid rising tensions over judicial reform
The ongoing strike by lawyers in Morocco has been extended indefinitely, deepening tensions between the legal profession and the Ministry of Justice over a controversial reform of the legal sector.
Initially planned to last from June 15 to June 21, the strike will now continue “until further notice,” according to a statement from the Association of Moroccan Bar Associations. The decision reflects growing dissatisfaction among lawyers regarding the proposed legal framework governing their profession.
At the center of the dispute is draft law No. 66.23, which aims to regulate the legal profession. Although the bill has already been approved by the House of Representatives, it continues to face strong opposition from lawyers who argue that it threatens the independence of their profession.
Legal practitioners have expressed concern that the reform could increase administrative oversight and weaken the self-regulatory powers traditionally granted to the legal community. They also warn that some disciplinary provisions included in the draft law could restrict the free exercise of defense rights.
Tensions escalated further following recent comments attributed to Minister of Justice Abdellatif Ouahbi regarding alleged abuses linked to legal aid services for low-income citizens. Lawyers’ associations described the remarks as provocative, adding fuel to an already strained relationship.
Efforts at mediation led by the head of government had previously raised hopes of a compromise before the bill’s further parliamentary review. However, the lack of agreement between the two sides ultimately led to the continuation of the strike.
The prolonged protest is already disrupting court proceedings and legal hearings across the country, raising concerns about delays in justice delivery. With no clear timeline for a resolution, the standoff between lawyers and authorities appears to be entering a more entrenched phase, with dialogue still uncertain.
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