Legal Consequences for a Former Parliamentary Figure
The Appeals Chamber at the Marrakech Court of Appeal has overturned a previous acquittal ruling in a significant case involving Hamid Al-Akrud, a former member of parliament representing the Rahmouna district and the former president of the Sidi Bou Othmane municipality. After a protracted three-month trial, the court has sentenced Al-Akrud to six months of actual imprisonment following charges of fraud and breach of trust. This decision nullified the initial ruling from the Marrakech Court that had acquitted him of the accusations on October 13, 2025, a verdict that was subsequently challenged.
Financial Penalties and Background of the Case
In its recent judgment, the Appeals Chamber not only imposed a six-month prison sentence but also levied a fine of 1,000 dirhams against Al-Akrud. Additionally, he is required to pay a civil compensation of 30,000 dirhams to the plaintiff, a company specializing in audio-visual equipment rentals. The conflict arose from allegations made by this company, which claimed that the former municipal official had violated terms of a contract regarding the use of equipment installed in a recreational space affiliated with a classified hotel in Marrakech. The contract stipulated monthly payments for the utilization of the equipment, with ownership potentially transferring after the agreement's expiration. However, disputes escalated when the plaintiff accused Al-Akrud of obstructing contractual obligations and preventing necessary inspections of the equipment.
Initially, the company sought legal recourse in commercial court, where it received favorable rulings mandating payment of the equipment utilization fees, amounting to 150 million centimes. Nonetheless, difficulties in enforcing these commercial judgments led the company to pursue further legal action in the criminal realm, culminating in the recent appellate ruling that has concluded this legal confrontation. It is noteworthy that Al-Akrud recently joined the Socialist Union of Popular Forces party, aligning with the party's preparations for the legislative elections scheduled for this year.
As reported by al3omk.com.
