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Morocco advances overhaul of criminal procedure code to modernize justice system
Morocco’s House of Councillors has approved a draft law aimed at reforming the country’s Criminal Procedure Code, marking a significant step in modernizing the nation’s legal framework. Draft Law No. 03.23 was passed with 24 votes in favor, four against, and two abstentions.
A pivotal move in justice reform
Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi, who championed the reform, described it as a historic milestone in Morocco’s legal and human rights landscape. Highlighting the importance of the Criminal Procedure Code, Ouahbi emphasized its role as the backbone of criminal and punitive laws. He noted that the reform seeks to ensure crimes are properly investigated, perpetrators held accountable, and fair prosecutions guaranteed.
Beyond addressing crimes, the amended code also aims to safeguard the presumption of innocence and uphold the conditions of a fair trial. The draft law aligns with Morocco’s broader efforts to strengthen individual rights and freedoms, adhere fully to international human rights commitments, and combat crime more effectively.
Consultation and legislative goals
The reform was crafted based on consultations with various institutions, including the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) and the Economic, Social, and Environmental Council (CESE). Ouahbi stressed that the initiative reflects public expectations and Morocco’s evolving legal and institutional needs.
Since 2024, Ouahbi has consistently advocated for updating Morocco’s criminal procedure laws. In March, he urged institutions to maximize the impact of the country’s new alternative sentencing law, which introduces non-custodial penalties as a transformative approach to criminal justice. In May, the Moroccan government approved a draft decree to implement these alternative sentencing measures, further modernizing the justice system.
Ouahbi concluded by stating that the legislative reform represents a crucial step toward ensuring justice, accountability, and equity within Morocco’s legal framework.
