During his presentation of the draft budget of the financial jurisdictions for the 2025 budget year to the Committee on Justice, Legislation, Human Rights and Freedoms in the House of Representatives, Mr. Koulouh stressed that the new model of these jurisdictions aims to create a significant change in the mode of execution of their missions and their interaction with the parties concerned, by continuing the improvement and development of IT applications to achieve the objectives set, strengthen efficiency and direct attention towards priorities with a positive impact on the implementation of the missions of financial jurisdictions.
Regarding the budget envelope allocated to financial jurisdictions in the 2025 draft budget, he specified that it exceeds 619 million dirhams (MDH) for payment credits, an increase of 8.4% compared to to the 2024 budget, which amounted to 590 MDH, in addition to 20 MDH of commitment appropriations.
As for the allocations allocated to the salaries and allowances of judges and civil servants of the financial courts for the year 2025, they amount to nearly 443 MDH, while the expenses linked to equipment and other various charges are 96.5 MDH, in addition to 800 MDH allocated to investment credits.
The Secretary General, in this sense, cited the project to digitize all operations linked to the presentation of accounts, which will make it possible to do without traditional paper transactions and to minimize errors and delays in the manual processing of documents, through a new electronic platform allowing the parties concerned to present their accounts in a direct and secure manner.
He also announced that the Court looked into the establishment of a digital registry system, which envisages digitizing all operations linked to the management of files within financial jurisdictions, through the creation of a global digital system for archiving and managing files capable of reducing the use of paper documents, accelerating operations related to the filing and monitoring of files, the summoning of the parties concerned and the communication of conclusions issued by these courts.
Mr. Koulouh also reported on the continued digitalization of operations linked to data analysis, highlighting the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), in view of the evolution of its use in several areas.
In this context, he recalled that the Court of Auditors is working on the development of a roadmap to adopt AI projects, the implementation of which is planned for next year.
These projects relate to “the modernization of information systems and the improvement of cybersecurity”, he noted, indicating that the objective of this modernization and updating of the information systems of financial jurisdictions is not are not limited to improving the management of control missions and administrative operations, but also focus largely on strengthening the security of information systems against growing cybersecurity threats.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Legal Expert on the 2025 Financial Jurisdiction Budget Proposal
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Haddad. As an expert in financial law and public administration, your insights are invaluable—especially in light of Mr. Koulouh’s recent presentation of the draft budget for the financial jurisdictions. What are your initial thoughts on the proposed budget increase of 8.4% for 2025?
Dr. Haddad: Thank you for having me. The proposed increase is quite significant and indicates a commitment to enhancing the operational capabilities of financial jurisdictions. Not only does it reflect an awareness of the growing needs within the legal framework, but it also suggests that the government is prioritizing efficiency and effectiveness in the execution of financial justice.
Editor: You mentioned efficiency—could you elaborate on how this budget aims to improve the execution of missions for financial jurisdictions?
Dr. Haddad: Absolutely. The emphasis on improving IT applications is crucial. Mr. Koulouh mentioned a shift towards digitizing operations linked to account presentations. Transitioning away from traditional paper transactions will not only streamline processes but also minimize errors—something that has been a key issue in financial reporting. This digital transformation is likely to enhance transparency and accountability within the financial systems.
Editor: Speaking of transparency, the allocations for salaries and allowances of judges and civil servants are substantial, with nearly 443 million dirhams dedicated to this expense. How does this investment play into the larger goals of the financial jurisdictions?
Dr. Haddad: A well-compensated judiciary is paramount for its independence and dedication. By ensuring that judges and civil servants are adequately paid, the government signals its respect for the legal profession and its value in upholding justice. This investment not only fosters a more motivated workforce but also encourages a turnover rate that is manageable—further solidifying the integrity of the courts.
Editor: The budget also includes significant funds for equipment and various charges, along with a noteworthy 800 million dirhams allocated to investment credits. What do you think this indicates about the future priorities of financial jurisdiction?
Dr. Haddad: This allocation is a strong indicator that the financial jurisdictions are not just maintaining status quo but are actively aiming to innovate. Investment credits are essential for implementing new technologies and methodologies—be it expanding IT systems or enhancing infrastructure. Such initiatives are vital for adapting to the evolving challenges in finance and law.
Editor: You’ve mentioned the importance of digital tools and infrastructures. What challenges do you foresee in the transition to a more digital model within financial jurisdictions?
Dr. Haddad: Transitioning to a digital model can be met with resistance, particularly from those accustomed to traditional methods. There’s often a learning curve for staff and judges who may not be well-versed in these new technologies. Additionally, cybersecurity becomes a significant concern when handling sensitive financial data. Comprehensive training and robust security measures will be essential to mitigate these challenges.
Editor: what broader impact do you believe this new budget approach will have on the citizens who interact with these financial jurisdictions?
Dr. Haddad: Ultimately, these changes are aimed at improving the public’s experience with financial jurisdictions. A more efficient, transparent, and digital system means that citizens will likely face shorter wait times, reduced bureaucratic hurdles, and overall a more positive interaction with the judicial system. If these improvements are executed successfully, it could restore faith in public institutions and help ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Haddad, for sharing your insights. It sounds like the 2025 draft budget for financial jurisdictions represents a significant step towards modernizing our legal system.
Dr. Haddad: Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for financial jurisdictions, and I look forward to seeing how these initiatives unfold in the coming year.