The Moroccan Lawyers Club (CAM) filed a complaint on Wednesday with the Paris prosecutor’s office against Algerian radio commentator Mehdi Ghezzar for insulting remarks and inciting hatred against Moroccans. The complaint comes after Ghezzar’s insulting statements during an intervention on the Algerian channel AL24 news on August 25 led to his removal from the Radio RMC show “Les Grandes Gueules”.
The CAM has accused Ghezzar of damaging the honor of the state and inciting hatred and discrimination in violation of the law on freedom of the press. During his speech, Ghezzar confirmed that, in the context of the ongoing Israeli massacre in Gaza, Moroccans will be prohibited from expressing their discontent or showing solidarity with Gaza, under the terms of the prison sentence and the ban on access to mosques. The CAM denies these accusations and emphasizes that expressions of support for the Palestinians are frequent and widely tolerated in Morocco.
Ghezzar also made anti-Semitic comments, accusing André Azoulay, an adviser to King Mohammed VI, of being responsible for a non-existent decree prohibiting demonstrations of solidarity with Gaza. According to Ghezzar, Azoulay, whom he claims to be Israeli, would be involved in these fictitious measures. CAM denounces these accusations as not only baseless but also dangerous, fuelling anti-Semitic prejudices.
In addition, Ghezzar accused Morocco of spreading “Zionist propaganda” and called Morocco the “Thailand of Africa”, signs that CAM considers a reference to pedophilia, criminality and moral corruption. These comments sparked intense outrage in the Moroccan community and beyond.
Faced with controversy, Radio RMC announced that it would no longer collaborate with Ghezzar. The channel and the hosts of the show “Les Grandes Gueules” have distanced themselves from Ghezzar’s hateful comments, affirming that they in no way reflect the values of RMC and the show.
This case takes place in the context of growing diplomatic tensions between Morocco and Algeria. CAM hopes that this complaint will contribute to respecting Morocco’s dignity and honour on the international scene.
The complaint filed by CAM marks the start of legal proceedings that could have significant consequences. The Moroccan lawyers’ group is committed to bringing this case to its conclusion in order to protect Morocco’s image and interests. The next steps in the process will likely include hearings and investigations to establish the facts and determine responsibility.
The case also attracted international attention. Several human rights organizations and media outlets expressed concern over Ghezzar’s comments and called for a thorough investigation. CAM indicated that it would fully cooperate with French and international authorities to shed light on the case.