Significance of Implementing UN Recommendations for the Gdeim Izik Group
The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT), acting under the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders, along with various human rights organizations, are closely monitoring the ongoing hunger strike initiated by Sahrawi political prisoners from the Gdeim Izik group. This protest, which has been underway since September 23, 2026, takes place in Moroccan prisons and is aimed at drawing attention to their protracted detention and the deplorable conditions they are subjected to. The strikers are explicitly demanding the implementation of the recommendations and opinions provided by United Nations human rights mechanisms, including those from Special Rapporteurs, the Committee Against Torture, and the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention concerning their situation. Additionally, they are calling for their transfer to prisons situated in Western Sahara to facilitate family visits and support.
Currently, notable individuals participating in this hunger strike include Naama Asfari, Ahmed Sbaai, Hassan Dah, El Houssein Ezzaoui, Mohamed Bani, Mohamed Lamine Haddi, Mohamed El Bachir Boutenguiza, and Abdallah Abbahah. A recent development in this ongoing situation saw El Bachir Khadda being moved to a local prison in El Aaiún, Western Sahara, where he opted to suspend his hunger strike. Conversely, Naama Asfari was relocated to Loudaya prison in Marrakech, and Hassan Dah was transferred to Ben Guerir prison in Morocco, both of whom continue their protest alongside their fellow inmates.
This hunger strike is particularly significant as it marks over sixteen years since the Gdeim Izik group's arrest, highlighting their continuous suffering within Moroccan prisons and the distress experienced by their families. The organizations involved express deep concern for the health of the prisoners who are currently on hunger strike and reiterate their call for the immediate release of all Sahrawi political prisoners. The situation remains critical, and the international community is urged to take action to ensure that human rights are respected and upheld in Morocco.
As reported by fidh.org.
