Trial of Moroccan Cartoonist for Alleged Insult to the King
The Casablanca Court of First Instance in Morocco has postponed the trial of cartoonist Yasser Mounbir, who appeared in court on Wednesday, to September 21. This decision comes in light of allegations against Mounbir following his publication of caricatures of King Mohammed VI on his Instagram account. According to Hakim Sekouk, a representative from the Moroccan Association for Human Rights, who is monitoring the case, the prosecution is based on claims of insulting a constitutional institution through electronic means.
As reported, Mounbir, who is 22 years old, was arrested on June 17, and the public prosecutor has charged him with "insulting a constitutional institution via electronic means," as well as insulting public officials. Notably, Mounbir appeared in court without legal representation due to an ongoing strike by lawyers, yet he asserted his right to defend himself, prompting the court to adjourn the hearing.
The accusations stem from Mounbir's Instagram posts featuring caricatures of the king. During the Wednesday session, it was noted that he requested his release, but the court denied his appeal. Under Article 179 of the Moroccan Penal Code, the law criminalizes slander or insult toward the private life of the king, stipulating penalties ranging from six months to two years in prison. The penalty may be increased if such offenses are committed using electronic means.
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