Moroccan Mothers Rally for the Release of Their Imprisoned Sons

On September 26, 2026, a poignant gathering took place in front of the Parliament in Rabat, Morocco, where mothers of several imprisoned GenZ 212 movement protesters convened to demand the release of their children, some of whom are minors. These mothers expressed their anguish and exhaustion, highlighting the emotional and logistical toll the situation has taken on their lives. Bouchra Najjari, a 53-year-old mother, poignantly articulated their plight, stating, "We urge the authorities to release our sons. We are exhausted and suffering. I can no longer balance my work with visits to my son in prison." This heartfelt appeal reflects not only the personal struggles of these mothers but also the broader societal ramifications of the protests that unfolded nearly a year ago.

Last autumn, the GenZ 212 collective emerged as a formidable force, utilizing social media to organize demonstrations demanding reforms in healthcare, education, and an end to corruption. These protests, which were largely peaceful, were met with occasional violence, resulting in tragic outcomes, including three fatalities near Agadir. The protests, characterized by their frequency and fervor, gradually waned over time; however, the impact of the movement continues to resonate. The mothers' rally serves as a stark reminder of the unresolved issues stemming from the protests, as many young individuals still languish in detention.

Concerns Over Legal Irregularities

Saadia Ben Ziania, another mother at the rally, made a heartfelt plea to King Mohammed VI, highlighting that her 15-year-old grandson was arrested a year ago. The national coordinator for the GenZ 212 prisoners support committee, Hakim Sikouk, emphasized the ongoing plight of the detained youth, revealing that nearly 750 individuals remain incarcerated, including minors and those who have yet to be tried. Sikouk pointed out significant irregularities in the legal proceedings against these young people, underscoring the urgent need for their release. In October, the prosecution announced that over 2,400 individuals had been arrested in connection with the protests, with approximately 1,400 still in detention, raising serious concerns about the treatment of these young detainees.

As reported by ouest-france.fr.