Morocco's Human Rights Council Greenlights DNA Testing for Tazmamart Victims After Two Decades

In a significant development for human rights in Morocco, the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) has approved DNA testing on the remains of detainees who perished in the notorious Tazmamart prison. This decision comes after a 20-year campaign by the Association of Victims of Tazmamart, marking a potential turning point in the quest for justice and closure.

Tazmamart, a clandestine detention facility in southeastern Morocco, gained infamy for its inhumane conditions. It housed military officers and others implicated in failed coup attempts against King Hassan II in the early 1970s. Many detainees did not survive their incarceration, leaving families without answers or proper closure for decades.

The Association of Victims of Tazmamart recently held a virtual meeting with survivors and families affected by the Tazmamart tragedy. During this gathering, it was revealed that the CNDH had begun reaching out to some families to initiate genetic analysis of the deceased, referred to poignantly as "martyrs" by the association.

This move, while welcomed, has raised questions about timing and motivations. Ahmed Marzouki, one of the few survivors of Tazmamart, expressed a mix of relief and skepticism. "This is a positive step that we have been requesting for years," Marzouki told Al3omk. However, he questioned the sudden change in the CNDH's stance, noting their previous reluctance to use DNA testing for identification purposes.

Marzouki also voiced concerns about the process, alleging that Tazmamart survivors were not adequately consulted or involved. "They act as if they experienced Tazmamart in our place, as if they endured the torture and suffering," he stated, highlighting the emotional disconnect between officials and those directly affected.

The association has called for a comprehensive approach to addressing the Tazmamart case. They emphasize the need for full disclosure of the truth and appropriate reparations for victims and their families, in line with international standards. The group plans to request an urgent meeting with CNDH president Amina Bouayach to discuss these demands further.

While the DNA testing initiative represents progress, it also underscores the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition faced by victims of past human rights abuses in Morocco. The Tazmamart case remains a painful chapter in the country's history, serving as a reminder of the importance of human rights protections and the enduring impact of state-sanctioned abuses.

As Morocco continues to grapple with its past, this development may pave the way for more comprehensive efforts to address historical injustices and strengthen the country's commitment to human rights. The coming months will likely reveal whether this step leads to broader reforms and reconciliation efforts, or if it remains an isolated gesture in a complex landscape of historical reckoning.