The Moroccan city of Marrakesh is home to a secret paradise, a garden of plants and artworks designed by an Austrian artist. The eight acre site is open to visitors who come to wander through the parts of this eccentric attraction.

WION Climate Tracker: Garden of plants and artworks in Morocco

Growers of Cannabis or 'Hashish' in Morocco are hoping that a change in a 2021 law will help them profit legally from cultivating and exporting the crop. Erik Njoka reports.

World of Africa: Moroccan cannabis growers on a high

In the hills of northern&nbsp;Morocco, vast cannabis fields are ready for harvest, but farmers complain that a government plan to market the crop legally is yet to deliver them any benefits.

The marginalised Rif region has long been a major source of illicit hashish smuggled to Europe while Moroccan authorities, wary of social unrest, have often turned a blind eye.

Growers now hope that a change in the law last year will help them profit legally from medicinal cannabis, increasingly used to treat conditions including multiple sclerosis and epilepsy.

Morocco&nbsp;-- the world's top producer of hashish according to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/five-signs-why-global-economy-is-headed-for-recession-522569">United Nations</a> -- lies on Europe's doorstep and is potentially well placed to become a top legitimate exporter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/19-dead-after-consuming-toxic-liquor-in-morocco-520741">19 dead after consuming toxic liquor in Morocco, several hospitalised</a>

But a domestic crackdown on growers, slow progress in issuing licences for legal production and strong competition from European operators has left Rif farmers out in the cold.

"We're still attached to this plant, but it has stopped giving us anything," said Souad, a cannabis farmer in the village of Azila.

"Nobody wants it anymore," Souad shrugged. "Our lives are hard now."

Under a law the government approved in March last year, farmers will be able to form cooperatives to grow limited amounts of cannabis for processing and sale by licensed firms.

Souad, who still helps her sons on the family plot despite being in her 60s, holds tentative hope that this will help her community make a better living.&nbsp;

"If it's serious, it's a good thing," she said.

&nbsp;'We're just farmers'&nbsp;

Demand for the Moroccan product has dropped as legal, highly regulated, production in Europe has fed the market.

Moroccan farmers' income from cannabis fell from 500 million euros (now around $497 million) a year in the early 2000s to less than 325 million euros in 2020, according to an interior ministry study last year.

"The market has fallen drastically," said Karim, another grower.

Adding to the pressure, he was only able to farm part of his family's land in Azila this year because of water shortages driven by the worst drought in decades.

Moroccan authorities have also stepped up raids against farmers in the Rif as they seek to dismantle smuggling networks in favour of the legal trade.

"Farmers are the weak link in the supply chain -- we're the ones who pay the price" for involvement in the illicit market, Karim complained.

"The only option we have left is prison," said the 44-year-old.

Nourredine, another cannabis grower, said he too holds out hope that legalisation of the drug could help farmers in the Rif.

However, he added, "so far nothing has changed. We're always seen as thugs and criminals, but we're just farmers."

Complex bureaucracy

A six-hour drive away in the capital Rabat, a government official insisted that better times were around the corner for cannabis growers.

"There may be concerns, but legalisation will dispel them because it will benefit the growers," he said, asking not to be identified because he was not authorised to speak to the media on the subject.

The state estimates that growers could receive some 12 percent of revenues from regulated cannabis production, compared to just four percent on the black market, according to state news agency MAP.

But authorities have stressed that the process must not be rushed.

On Tuesday ANRAC, a new government agency inaugurated in June to regulate the industry, issued the first 10 licences to firms that will process the plant for therapeutic purposes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/new-zealand-rise-in-beekeeping-and-low-demand-leads-to-surplus-of-manuka-honey-says-report-522838">New Zealand: Rise in beekeeping and low demand leads to surplus of mānuka honey, says report</a>

Then it will be the turn of farmers in the Rifian provinces of Al-Hoceima, Chefchaouen and Taounate to form cooperatives and register with ANRAC with a view to receiving production licences under a quota system.

Under the 2021 law, licences to produce cannabis are granted "only within the limits of the quantities needed to meet the needs for the manufacture of products for medical, pharmaceutical and therapeutic purposes".

Cannabis farms covered 55,000 hectares (around 136,000 acres) in the northeast of the kingdom in 2019, providing livelihoods for up to 120,000 families, according to a study prior to the law being passed.

Civil society groups in the area are now mobilising to inform farmers about the technical aspects of the new system.

Some details are "complicated", said Soufiane Zahlaf, who represents Azila residents in dealings with authorities on the matter.

"But if the approach of the authorities is inclusive," he said, "then great things can be achieved."

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In the hills of northern Morocco, vast cannabis fields are ready for harvest, but farmers complain that a government plan to market the crop legally is yet to deliver them any benefits.

In the hills of northern Morocco, vast cannabis fields are ready for harvest, but farmers complain that a government plan to market the crop legally is yet to deliver them any benefits. The marginalised Rif region has long been a major source of illicit hashish smuggled to Europe while Moroccan authorities, wary of social unrest, have often turned a blind eye. Growers now hope that a change in the law last year will help them profit legally from medicinal cannabis, increasingly used to treat conditions including multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. Morocco -- the world's top producer of hashish according to the United Nations -- lies on Europe's doorstep and is potentially well placed to become a top legitimate exporter. Also read | 19 dead after consuming toxic liquor in Morocco, several hospitalised But a domestic crackdown on growers, slow progress in issuing licences for legal production and strong competition from European operators has left Rif farmers out in the cold. "We're still attached to this plant, but it has stopped giving us anything," said Souad, a cannabis farmer in the village of Azila. "Nobody wants it anymore," Souad shrugged. "Our lives are hard now." Under a law the government approved in March last year, farmers will be able to form cooperatives to grow limited amounts of cannabis for processing and sale by licensed firms. Souad, who still helps her sons on the family plot despite being in her 60s, holds tentative hope that this will help her community make a better living. "If it's serious, it's a good thing," she said. 'We're just farmers' Demand for the Moroccan product has dropped as legal, highly regulated, production in Europe has fed the market. Moroccan farmers' income from cannabis fell from 500 million euros (now around $497 million) a year in the early 2000s to less than 325 million euros in 2020, according to an interior ministry study last year. "The market has fallen drastically," said Karim, another grower. Adding to the pressure, he was only able to farm part of his family's land in Azila this year because of water shortages driven by the worst drought in decades. Moroccan authorities have also stepped up raids against farmers in the Rif as they seek to dismantle smuggling networks in favour of the legal trade. "Farmers are the weak link in the supply chain -- we're the ones who pay the price" for involvement in the illicit market, Karim complained. "The only option we have left is prison," said the 44-year-old. Nourredine, another cannabis grower, said he too holds out hope that legalisation of the drug could help farmers in the Rif. However, he added, "so far nothing has changed. We're always seen as thugs and criminals, but we're just farmers." Complex bureaucracy A six-hour drive away in the capital Rabat, a government official insisted that better times were around the corner for cannabis growers. "There may be concerns, but legalisation will dispel them because it will benefit the growers," he said, asking not to be identified because he was not authorised to speak to the media on the subject. The state estimates that growers could receive some 12 percent of revenues from regulated cannabis production, compared to just four percent on the black market, according to state news agency MAP. But authorities have stressed that the process must not be rushed. On Tuesday ANRAC, a new government agency inaugurated in June to regulate the industry, issued the first 10 licences to firms that will process the plant for therapeutic purposes. Also read | New Zealand: Rise in beekeeping and low demand leads to surplus of mānuka honey, says report Then it will be the turn of farmers in the Rifian provinces of Al-Hoceima, Chefchaouen and Taounate to form cooperatives and register with ANRAC with a view to receiving production licences under a quota system. Under the 2021 law, licences to produce cannabis are granted "only within the limits of the quantities needed to meet the needs for the manufacture of products for medical, pharmaceutical and therapeutic purposes". Cannabis farms covered 55,000 hectares (around 136,000 acres) in the northeast of the kingdom in 2019, providing livelihoods for up to 120,000 families, according to a study prior to the law being passed. Civil society groups in the area are now mobilising to inform farmers about the technical aspects of the new system. Some details are "complicated", said Soufiane Zahlaf, who represents Azila residents in dealings with authorities on the matter. "But if the approach of the authorities is inclusive," he said, "then great things can be achieved." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

In Morocco hills, cannabis farmers bet on budding industry

France continues to reel under scorching heat and the country saw record temperatures in September as the heatwave continues to drift up from Morocco. The Southwest region is the worst hit with mercury rising to 39 degree celsius.

France continues to reel under heat wave; Southwest region worst hit

At least 23 migrants died last week near the Moroccan border as migrants attempted to scale the border fence. The incident had spark protests in Spain and the Moroccan capital of Rabat.

WION Fineprint | Demonstrators gather outside the parliament in Rabat

After a violent skirmish between border police and migrants, 18 Africans died during a mass attempt to enter Spain's Melilla.

According to an update from Moroccan authorities, approximately 2,000 migrants stormed a high fence that seals off the enclave.

Melilla has become a magnet for mostly sub-Saharan migrants trying to get into Europe as it is located also on Africa's northern coast.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-230-migrants-enter-spains-melilla-enclave-after-scaling-the-fence-399717">Also read |&nbsp;Over 230 migrants enter Spain's Melilla enclave after scaling the fence</a>

Celebrating entering Melilla and the firing of what appeared to be tear gas by the authorities, social media footage showed large groups of African youths walking along roads around the border.

Paying tribute to officers on both sides of the border for fighting off "a well-organised, violent assault", Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez suggested it was organised by "human trafficking mafias".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-deploys-army-in-ceuta-to-patrol-border-with-morocco-after-thousands-break-in-385866">Also read |&nbsp;Spain deploys army in Ceuta to patrol border with Morocco after thousands break in&nbsp;</a>

Ever since Spanish and Moroccan forces resumed joint patrols, there has been an "intense crackdown" on migrants to reinforce security measures in the area around the enclave.

Following more pro-Rabat stance over Western Sahara, migrant entries into the two enclaves had more than trebled but this was first significant incursion since then.

Taking advantage of the apparent lifting of a security net on the Moroccan side of the border, 8,000 people swam into Ceuta or clambered over its fence over a couple of days in 2021, following a bilateral diplomatic spat. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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After a violent skirmish between border police and migrants, 18 Africans died during a mass attempt to enter Spain's Melilla. According to an update from Moroccan authorities, approximately 2,000 migrants stormed a high fence that seals off the enclave.

After a violent skirmish between border police and migrants, 18 Africans died during a mass attempt to enter Spain's Melilla. According to an update from Moroccan authorities, approximately 2,000 migrants stormed a high fence that seals off the enclave. Melilla has become a magnet for mostly sub-Saharan migrants trying to get into Europe as it is located also on Africa's northern coast. Also read | Over 230 migrants enter Spain's Melilla enclave after scaling the fence Celebrating entering Melilla and the firing of what appeared to be tear gas by the authorities, social media footage showed large groups of African youths walking along roads around the border. Paying tribute to officers on both sides of the border for fighting off "a well-organised, violent assault", Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez suggested it was organised by "human trafficking mafias". Also read | Spain deploys army in Ceuta to patrol border with Morocco after thousands break in Ever since Spanish and Moroccan forces resumed joint patrols, there has been an "intense crackdown" on migrants to reinforce security measures in the area around the enclave. Following more pro-Rabat stance over Western Sahara, migrant entries into the two enclaves had more than trebled but this was first significant incursion since then. Taking advantage of the apparent lifting of a security net on the Moroccan side of the border, 8,000 people swam into Ceuta or clambered over its fence over a couple of days in 2021, following a bilateral diplomatic spat. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Violent skirmish between border police and migrants leave 18 dead in Spain's Melilla

Morocco said 18 migrants died trying to cross into Spain's North African enclave of Melilla, after a violent two-hour skirmish between migrants and border officers that also led to scores of injuries.

18 migrants die in mass attempt to reach Spain's Melilla

Four Moroccan&nbsp;women&nbsp;pressed charges against&nbsp;French&nbsp;insurance&nbsp;tycoon&nbsp;Jacques Bouthier on May 21.&nbsp;He is&nbsp;currently under arrest in Paris on charges of raping a minor, a rights group said on Friday.

The four alleged victims are&nbsp;aged from 26 to 28 and had been employed by Bouthier's firm.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huge-europe-morocco-migration-begins-after-covid-hiatus-485342">Huge Europe-Morocco migration begins after COVID-19 hiatus</a>

Bouthier, 75 and one of France's richest men, is ex-CEO of insurance group Assu2000, later renamed Vilavi.

Karima Salama, a lawyer from the&nbsp;Moroccan&nbsp;Association for the Rights of Victims (AMDV) said that "the women have accused Jacques Bouthier&nbsp;of various acts of people trafficking, sexual&nbsp;harassment&nbsp;and verbal and moral violence,&nbsp;between 2018 and this year".&nbsp;

"An enquiry has been opened and we have faith in the justice system", she added.

Watch |&nbsp;French legislative elections begin: First key test for President Macron

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One of the victims said,&nbsp;"He asked to sleep with me and when I said no, he asked me to introduce him to a sister, a female cousin or a friend, saying he would give me a nice present in exchange".

According to an AFP report, three of the&nbsp;alleged victims told journalists on Friday about their experiences, using sanitary masks and dark glasses to hide their identities and that they&nbsp;had been sacked after refusing to "give in to&nbsp;harassment&nbsp;and blackmail" over their employment by Bouthier and other&nbsp;French&nbsp;and&nbsp;Moroccan&nbsp;executives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-kept-on-sexually-molesting-me-pakistan-cricket-board-suspends-coach-after-shocking-allegations-489437">Also read |&nbsp;'He kept on sexually molesting me': Pakistan cricket Board suspends coach after shocking allegations</a>

They further mentioned that with repeated sexual harassment, they also were given threats about being thrown out of the job and expressed concerns that finding work is very&nbsp;difficult&nbsp;in the city, hence they couldn't speak up earlier.

One even said that Bouthier had presented them to men working at the firm, telling them, "If you bring in contracts, there will be beautiful&nbsp;Moroccan&nbsp;girls".

Bouthier was arrested by Paris prosecutors after an investigation regarding the accusations&nbsp;of people trafficking and the rape of a minor.&nbsp;He is also being prosecuted for other charges against him.&nbsp;

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Four Moroccan women pressed charges against French insurance tycoon Jacques Bouthier on May 21. He is currently under arrest in Paris on charges of raping a minor, a rights group said on Friday.

Four Moroccan women pressed charges against French insurance tycoon Jacques Bouthier on May 21. He is currently under arrest in Paris on charges of raping a minor, a rights group said on Friday. The four alleged victims are aged from 26 to 28 and had been employed by Bouthier's firm. Also read | Huge Europe-Morocco migration begins after COVID-19 hiatus Bouthier, 75 and one of France's richest men, is ex-CEO of insurance group Assu2000, later renamed Vilavi. Karima Salama, a lawyer from the Moroccan Association for the Rights of Victims (AMDV) said that "the women have accused Jacques Bouthier of various acts of people trafficking, sexual harassment and verbal and moral violence, between 2018 and this year". "An enquiry has been opened and we have faith in the justice system", she added. Watch | French legislative elections begin: First key test for President Macron One of the victims said, "He asked to sleep with me and when I said no, he asked me to introduce him to a sister, a female cousin or a friend, saying he would give me a nice present in exchange". According to an AFP report, three of the alleged victims told journalists on Friday about their experiences, using sanitary masks and dark glasses to hide their identities and that they had been sacked after refusing to "give in to harassment and blackmail" over their employment by Bouthier and other French and Moroccan executives. Also read | 'He kept on sexually molesting me': Pakistan cricket Board suspends coach after shocking allegations They further mentioned that with repeated sexual harassment, they also were given threats about being thrown out of the job and expressed concerns that finding work is very difficult in the city, hence they couldn't speak up earlier. One even said that Bouthier had presented them to men working at the firm, telling them, "If you bring in contracts, there will be beautiful Moroccan girls". Bouthier was arrested by Paris prosecutors after an investigation regarding the accusations of people trafficking and the rape of a minor. He is also being prosecuted for other charges against him. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Four Moroccan women accuse French tycoon of harassment

Morocco announced Saturday it had banned a British film about the daughter of the Prophet Mohammed, which Muslims in a number of countries have denounced as blasphemous.

'The Lady of Heaven' will not receive a licence to be shown in the country, the Moroccan Cinematographic Centre (CCM) said in a statement issued late Saturday.

The CCM ruling bans the film, directed by Eli King, from being screened on either a commercial or cultural basis in the country.

The drama&nbsp;is billed as the first film on the life of the Prophet Mohammed's daughter Fatimah, and draws links between the Islamic State&nbsp;group in the 21st century and historical figures in Sunni Islam.

The CCM's ruling comes hours after Morocco's Supreme Ulema Council, the kingdom's highest religious authority, firmly condemned the film in a statement Saturday.

In the statement, they said the film was a "flagrant falsification of the established facts of the history of Islam".

The film was released in Britain on June 3 but after protests outside cinemas, the world's second-largest cinema chain, Cineworld, cancelled all screenings.

Egypt, Pakistan, Iran and Iraq are among the countries to have denounced the film as blasphemous.

Morocco announced Saturday it had banned a British film about the daughter of the Prophet Mohammed, which Muslims in a number of countries have denounced as blasphemous.

Morocco announced Saturday it had banned a British film about the daughter of the Prophet Mohammed, which Muslims in a number of countries have denounced as blasphemous. 'The Lady of Heaven' will not receive a licence to be shown in the country, the Moroccan Cinematographic Centre (CCM) said in a statement issued late Saturday. The CCM ruling bans the film, directed by Eli King, from being screened on either a commercial or cultural basis in the country. The drama is billed as the first film on the life of the Prophet Mohammed's daughter Fatimah, and draws links between the Islamic State group in the 21st century and historical figures in Sunni Islam. The CCM's ruling comes hours after Morocco's Supreme Ulema Council, the kingdom's highest religious authority, firmly condemned the film in a statement Saturday. In the statement, they said the film was a "flagrant falsification of the established facts of the history of Islam". The film was released in Britain on June 3 but after protests outside cinemas, the world's second-largest cinema chain, Cineworld, cancelled all screenings. Egypt, Pakistan, Iran and Iraq are among the countries to have denounced the film as blasphemous.

Morocco bans film 'The Lady of Heaven' about daughter of Prophet Mohammed

This village in Morocco claims it has the world’s oldest & largest beehive. But due to drought situation, the colonies of bees have collapsed. There has been a mass death of bees, who are critical pollinators.

Why bees in this Moroccan village are dying?

Israel hosted foreign ministers from the UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Morocco and the US at a desert retreat in the Negev. Will the summit begin a new era in Arab-Israel relations? Is America's dominance in West Asia coming to an end? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Israel hosts 4 Arab ministers in unprecedented summit

In a tragic incident, a Moroccan boy who was trapped in a well died despite efforts. Emergency crew found 5-year-old dead.

Morocco: The emergency crew finds 5-year-old boy trapped in well dead

In an extremely tragic end to a five-day rescue operation that gripped Morocco, the emergency crews found that the five-year-old boy trapped at the bottom of a well did not survive

Moroccan emergency crews find 5 year old dead

Pics: Rescue workers in Morocco move closer to save child trapped in well

For the third day, rescue workers in Morocco kept on digging to save Rayan, a five-year-old boy trapped in a deep well for four days. The well is located in the northern village of Ighran in Morocco’s Chefchaouen province.&nbsp;

The rescuers have somehow managed to get down oxygen and water to him. They also received a response from him.

Operation's leaders, Abdesalam Makoudi said, "We're almost there. We've been working non-stop for three days and tiredness is kicking in, but the whole rescue team is hanging on."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijings-genocide-games-kick-off-amid-backlash-from-all-across-the-world-450560">Also read |&nbsp;Beijing's 'Genocide Games' kick off amid backlash from all across the world</a>

The rescuers have already dug down 28 meters and are now preparing for a delicate operation to create a horizontal shaft to reach the boy. Government spokesman Mustapha Baitas, while elaborating on the mission said, "The child's rescue is approaching. Our hearts are with the family, and we are praying that he will back with them as soon as possible."

It all started when the 5-year-old disappeared while playing. "The whole family went out to look for him then we realised that he'd fallen down the well. I'm still keeping up hope that we'll get him out alive," his mother said.&nbsp;

As per reports by local media, the medics are on-site to check on the boy once he is extracted. Also, the authorities have a helicopter on standby to take the child to a hospital.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the third day, rescue workers in Morocco kept on digging to save Rayan, a five-year-old boy trapped in a deep well for four days. The well is located in the northern village of Ighran in Morocco’s Chefchaouen province.

For the third day, rescue workers in Morocco kept on digging to save Rayan, a five-year-old boy trapped in a deep well for four days. The well is located in the northern village of Ighran in Morocco’s Chefchaouen province. The rescuers have somehow managed to get down oxygen and water to him. They also received a response from him. Operation's leaders, Abdesalam Makoudi said, "We're almost there. We've been working non-stop for three days and tiredness is kicking in, but the whole rescue team is hanging on." Also read | Beijing's 'Genocide Games' kick off amid backlash from all across the world The rescuers have already dug down 28 meters and are now preparing for a delicate operation to create a horizontal shaft to reach the boy. Government spokesman Mustapha Baitas, while elaborating on the mission said, "The child's rescue is approaching. Our hearts are with the family, and we are praying that he will back with them as soon as possible." It all started when the 5-year-old disappeared while playing. "The whole family went out to look for him then we realised that he'd fallen down the well. I'm still keeping up hope that we'll get him out alive," his mother said. As per reports by local media, the medics are on-site to check on the boy once he is extracted. Also, the authorities have a helicopter on standby to take the child to a hospital. (With inputs from agencies)

Morocco: Rescuers dig for third day to save 5-year-old boy trapped in well

Four university lecturers in Morocco on Tuesday appeared in court facing allegations of trading good grades for sexual favours.

A fifth lecturer faces more serious charges of indecent assault and battery. The lecturer is due to appear before a judge on Wednesday.

The scandal erupted in September, when Moroccan media picked up social media leaks of messages purportedly exchanged between the lecturers and students.

Four of the accused, all of whom teach at Hassan I University in Settat near Casablanca, face charges of "incitement to debauchery", gender discrimination and violence against women, said AFP citing source.

As per Moroccan media, the trial was adjourned till December 14.

Three of the defendants are in detention.

In recent years a string of high-profile sexual harassment scandals have shaken Moroccan universities, but most have not resulted in trials, let alone convictions.

Rights groups say sexual violence is widespread in Morocco but that pressures from a conservative society mean women are reluctant to report sexual violence for fear of reprisals or damage to their family reputation.

In 2018, after years of heated debates, the law was changed to allow perpetrators of "harassment, aggression, sexual exploitation or ill-treatment" to be punished with prison terms.

But some argue that the law still fails to protect women from widespread sexual violence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Four university lecturers in Morocco on Tuesday appeared in court facing allegations of trading good grades for sexual favours. A fifth lecturer faces more serious charges of indecent assault and battery.

Four university lecturers in Morocco on Tuesday appeared in court facing allegations of trading good grades for sexual favours. A fifth lecturer faces more serious charges of indecent assault and battery. The lecturer is due to appear before a judge on Wednesday. The scandal erupted in September, when Moroccan media picked up social media leaks of messages purportedly exchanged between the lecturers and students. Four of the accused, all of whom teach at Hassan I University in Settat near Casablanca, face charges of "incitement to debauchery", gender discrimination and violence against women, said AFP citing source. As per Moroccan media, the trial was adjourned till December 14. Three of the defendants are in detention. In recent years a string of high-profile sexual harassment scandals have shaken Moroccan universities, but most have not resulted in trials, let alone convictions. Rights groups say sexual violence is widespread in Morocco but that pressures from a conservative society mean women are reluctant to report sexual violence for fear of reprisals or damage to their family reputation. In 2018, after years of heated debates, the law was changed to allow perpetrators of "harassment, aggression, sexual exploitation or ill-treatment" to be punished with prison terms. But some argue that the law still fails to protect women from widespread sexual violence. (With inputs from agencies)

'Sex for good marks' cases bring Moroccan lecturers in court

Israel and Morocco have signed a landmark defence agreement that aims to lay the foundation for security cooperation, intelligence sharing and arms sales in the future.

Israel and Morocco to deepen intelligence and military cooperation

Israel & Morocco sign defence pact, aims to deepen intel & military cooperation

Morocco's King Mohammed VI on Friday named businessman Aziz Akhannouch to lead a new government after his National Rally of Independents (RNI) thrashed the long-ruling Islamists in parliamentary elections.

The king appointed Akhannouch "head of the government and tasked him with forming a new government", following Wednesday's polls, a statement from the palace said.

The RNI won 102 of parliament's 395 seats, trouncing the moderate Islamist Justice and Development Party (PJD), which had headed the governing coalition for a decade but took just 13 seats, according to results released by the interior ministry.

Akhannouch hailed the results as "a victory for democracy".

The billionaire businessman -- worth $2 billion according to Forbes -- has led the RNI since 2016.

His party is considered close to the palace and has been part of all coalition governments for the past 23 years, except during a brief period between 2012 and 2013.

Following his win, Akhannouch pledged to improve conditions for citizens of Morocco, where entrenched social inequalities have been exacerbated by the pandemic.

"The main commitment of the party is to work seriously as long as we enjoy the confidence of citizens, to improve their daily lives, to achieve their aspirations and regain confidence in their representatives," he said.

The economy shrank by 7.1 percent in 2020 and the poverty rate shot up to 11.7 percent during the lockdown, the Moroccan statistics institute said in April.

A recent overhaul of the elections laws meant it was the first time Morocco's 18 million voters cast ballots in both parliamentary and local elections on the same day, an effort to boost turnout.

Around 50.35 percent of eligible voters participated, according to the interior minister, higher than the 43 percent in the 2016 legislative polls.

Akhannouch's party also came first in the local elections, winning 9,995 of the 31,503 seats, and the regional poll with 196 of the 678 positions.

Negotiations

Akhannouch said he was ready to begin negotiations to form his coalition government.&nbsp;

"The most important thing is to have a coherent and united majority," he said in a televised address Friday evening.

Under Morocco's constitutional monarchy, the new administration must be submitted for approval by the king, who reserves veto rights.

Akhannouch will likely draw from the main opposition, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) -- founded by an influential royal advisor -- which came second in the parliamentary elections with 86 seats, as well as the conservative Istiqlal party, which took 81 seats.

Cabinet horsetrading is not expected to include the PJD however, which announced that it would switch to its "natural" position as the opposition.

Swept to power in the wake of the 2011 uprisings around the Middle East and North Africa, the PJD had hoped to secure a third term leading a ruling coalition.

Despite the change of guard, policy shifts are unlikely since major decisions in Morocco still come from King Mohammed VI.

The head of the Arab world's longest-serving dynasty has already announced a charter for a "new model of development" with a "new generation of reforms and projects" in the coming years, with political parties expected to sign up.

The plan's major aims include reducing Morocco's wealth gap and doubling per-capita economic output by 2035.

Morocco's King Mohammed VI on Friday named businessman Aziz Akhannouch to lead a new government after his National Rally of Independents (RNI) thrashed the long-ruling Islamists in parliamentary elections.

Morocco's King Mohammed VI on Friday named businessman Aziz Akhannouch to lead a new government after his National Rally of Independents (RNI) thrashed the long-ruling Islamists in parliamentary elections. The king appointed Akhannouch "head of the government and tasked him with forming a new government", following Wednesday's polls, a statement from the palace said. The RNI won 102 of parliament's 395 seats, trouncing the moderate Islamist Justice and Development Party (PJD), which had headed the governing coalition for a decade but took just 13 seats, according to results released by the interior ministry. Akhannouch hailed the results as "a victory for democracy". The billionaire businessman -- worth $2 billion according to Forbes -- has led the RNI since 2016. His party is considered close to the palace and has been part of all coalition governments for the past 23 years, except during a brief period between 2012 and 2013. Following his win, Akhannouch pledged to improve conditions for citizens of Morocco, where entrenched social inequalities have been exacerbated by the pandemic. "The main commitment of the party is to work seriously as long as we enjoy the confidence of citizens, to improve their daily lives, to achieve their aspirations and regain confidence in their representatives," he said. The economy shrank by 7.1 percent in 2020 and the poverty rate shot up to 11.7 percent during the lockdown, the Moroccan statistics institute said in April. A recent overhaul of the elections laws meant it was the first time Morocco's 18 million voters cast ballots in both parliamentary and local elections on the same day, an effort to boost turnout. Around 50.35 percent of eligible voters participated, according to the interior minister, higher than the 43 percent in the 2016 legislative polls. Akhannouch's party also came first in the local elections, winning 9,995 of the 31,503 seats, and the regional poll with 196 of the 678 positions. Negotiations Akhannouch said he was ready to begin negotiations to form his coalition government. "The most important thing is to have a coherent and united majority," he said in a televised address Friday evening. Under Morocco's constitutional monarchy, the new administration must be submitted for approval by the king, who reserves veto rights. Akhannouch will likely draw from the main opposition, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) -- founded by an influential royal advisor -- which came second in the parliamentary elections with 86 seats, as well as the conservative Istiqlal party, which took 81 seats. Cabinet horsetrading is not expected to include the PJD however, which announced that it would switch to its "natural" position as the opposition. Swept to power in the wake of the 2011 uprisings around the Middle East and North Africa, the PJD had hoped to secure a third term leading a ruling coalition. Despite the change of guard, policy shifts are unlikely since major decisions in Morocco still come from King Mohammed VI. The head of the Arab world's longest-serving dynasty has already announced a charter for a "new model of development" with a "new generation of reforms and projects" in the coming years, with political parties expected to sign up. The plan's major aims include reducing Morocco's wealth gap and doubling per-capita economic output by 2035.

Morocco's king names businessman Akhannouch to head government

Algeria formally broke off diplomatic relations with neighboring Morocco, with the foreign minister citing a series of alleged hostile acts.

Algeria cuts diplomatic ties with Morocco over 'hostile issues'

Algeria cut diplomatic relations with Morocco on Tuesday, citing what it called hostile actions by its most populous neighbour with which it has had strained relations for decades. 
 
Speaking at a news conference in Algiers, Foreign Minister Ramdane Lamamra accused Morocco of using Pegasus spyware against its officials, supporting a separatist group and failing in bilateral commitments, including on the Western Sahara issue.

Watch:&nbsp;Algeria cuts diplomatic ties with Morocco over 'hostile issues'

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"The Moroccan kingdom has never stopped its hostile actions against Algeria," he said, announcing the immediate cessation of ties. Consulates in each country, however, will stay open, he added. 
 
Morocco's Foreign Ministry said in a statement published on social media that it regretted what it called an unjustified decision and said it would remain a "credible and loyal partner" to the Algerian people.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/all-is-well-in-cyberspace-websites-of-ousted-afghanistan-govt-are-still-up-a-week-after-taliban-takeover-408189" hreflang="en">All is well in cyberspace: Websites of ousted Afghanistan govt are still up a week after Taliban takeover</a> 
 
While the border between the two North African powers has been closed since 1994, diplomatic relations have not been broken since they were restored in 1988 following an earlier dispute. 
 
Morocco has said for years it wants the border to reopen. Algeria has said it must stay shut for security reasons.

Algeria cut diplomatic relations with Morocco on Tuesday, citing what it called hostile actions by its most populous neighbour with which it has had strained relations for decades.

Algeria cut diplomatic relations with Morocco on Tuesday, citing what it called hostile actions by its most populous neighbour with which it has had strained relations for decades. Speaking at a news conference in Algiers, Foreign Minister Ramdane Lamamra accused Morocco of using Pegasus spyware against its officials, supporting a separatist group and failing in bilateral commitments, including on the Western Sahara issue. Watch: Algeria cuts diplomatic ties with Morocco over 'hostile issues' × "The Moroccan kingdom has never stopped its hostile actions against Algeria," he said, announcing the immediate cessation of ties. Consulates in each country, however, will stay open, he added. Morocco's Foreign Ministry said in a statement published on social media that it regretted what it called an unjustified decision and said it would remain a "credible and loyal partner" to the Algerian people. Also Read: All is well in cyberspace: Websites of ousted Afghanistan govt are still up a week after Taliban takeover While the border between the two North African powers has been closed since 1994, diplomatic relations have not been broken since they were restored in 1988 following an earlier dispute. Morocco has said for years it wants the border to reopen. Algeria has said it must stay shut for security reasons.

Algeria cuts diplomatic relations with Morocco citing 'hostile actions'

Morocco&nbsp;wants to&nbsp;keep&nbsp;open&nbsp;a&nbsp;pipeline&nbsp;supplying Algerian&nbsp;gas&nbsp;via the kingdom to consumers in Europe, a senior official has said, despite a downturn in relations between the North African rivals.

The operating contract for the Moroccan section of the Maghreb-Europe&nbsp;Gas&nbsp;Pipeline, which links fields in Algeria with Spain, runs out in October.

There had been concern its renewal might fall foul of the latest spat between the two countries.

"Morocco's desire to retain this export route has been expressed clearly and consistently at all levels for more than three years," the head of the National Office for Hydrocarbons and Mines, Amina Benkhadra, told state media.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/handling-with-care-us-military-comforts-infants-at-kabul-airport-amid-facilitating-evacuations-407393">Also read |&nbsp;‘Handling with care’: US military comforts infants at Kabul airport amid facilitating evacuations</a>

"We have said so verbally and in writing, publicly and in private discussions, always with the same clarity and the same consistency," she said Wednesday.

Relations between Rabat and Algiers have been strained for decades amid deep differences over the Western Sahara, a disputed but largely Moroccan-controlled territory where Algiers supports a longstanding independence movement.

The border between the two countries has been closed since 1994.

The situation further deteriorated this week when Algeria said it would "review" relations after accusing&nbsp;Morocco&nbsp;of complicity in deadly forest fires that killed at least 90 people.

Algerian authorities have blamed the fires on widespread arson, singling out the independence movement in the mainly Berber region of Kabylie, which was hardest hit.

Morocco wants to keep open a pipeline supplying Algerian gas via the kingdom to consumers in Europe, a senior official has said, despite a downturn in relations between the North African rivals.

Morocco wants to keep open a pipeline supplying Algerian gas via the kingdom to consumers in Europe, a senior official has said, despite a downturn in relations between the North African rivals. The operating contract for the Moroccan section of the Maghreb-Europe Gas Pipeline, which links fields in Algeria with Spain, runs out in October. There had been concern its renewal might fall foul of the latest spat between the two countries. "Morocco's desire to retain this export route has been expressed clearly and consistently at all levels for more than three years," the head of the National Office for Hydrocarbons and Mines, Amina Benkhadra, told state media. Also read | ‘Handling with care’: US military comforts infants at Kabul airport amid facilitating evacuations "We have said so verbally and in writing, publicly and in private discussions, always with the same clarity and the same consistency," she said Wednesday. Relations between Rabat and Algiers have been strained for decades amid deep differences over the Western Sahara, a disputed but largely Moroccan-controlled territory where Algiers supports a longstanding independence movement. The border between the two countries has been closed since 1994. The situation further deteriorated this week when Algeria said it would "review" relations after accusing Morocco of complicity in deadly forest fires that killed at least 90 people. Algerian authorities have blamed the fires on widespread arson, singling out the independence movement in the mainly Berber region of Kabylie, which was hardest hit.

Morocco says keen to keep Algeria-Spain gas pipeline open

Save&nbsp;the&nbsp;Children&nbsp;on Saturday urged&nbsp;Spain&nbsp;to halt the&nbsp;repatriation&nbsp;to Morocco of hundreds of unaccompanied&nbsp;minors&nbsp;who were among thousands of migrants who crossed into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta three months ago.

The international NGO accused Madrid of failing to protect the rights of the&nbsp;children.

Up to 10,000 migrants flooded across the border in North Africa into Ceuta&nbsp;over&nbsp;several days in May as Moroccan border guards stood aside.

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This was widely seen as retaliation for&nbsp;Spain's decision to host Brahim Ghali, leader of the Polisario Front, which has for decades fought Morocco for the independence of Western Sahara, for medical treatment.

Spain&nbsp;on Friday began sending back more than 700 unaccompanied&nbsp;minors&nbsp;to Morocco.

"Repatriations from Ceuta continue today,"&nbsp;Save&nbsp;the&nbsp;Children&nbsp;posted on Twitter Saturday.

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Hoy continúan las repatriaciomes desde Ceuta. Estamos viendo como sacan a niños desde el pabellón deportivo de Santa Amelia para llevarlos a Marruecos. Pedimos el cese de estas reagrupaciones, España no está garantizando la protección de los menores. <a href="https://t.co/SSuBZH5IqP">pic.twitter.com/SSuBZH5IqP</a>
— Save the Children Es (@SaveChildrenEs) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaveChildrenEs/status/1426458830897045506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The NGO called "for an end" to these. "Spain&nbsp;is not guaranteeing the protection of&nbsp;minors," it said.

The interior ministry has not officially announced the repatriations and was not immediately available when contacted by AFP.

Ione Belarra, leader of the far-left Podemos, the junior member of&nbsp;Spain's ruling coalition, also criticised the transfers in a letter to Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska.

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"We have been informed by&nbsp;children's organisations on the ground that the&nbsp;repatriation&nbsp;of&nbsp;minors&nbsp;has begun," she wrote in the letter published in online daily El Confidencial.

She said that the operation might be taking place "without strict observance" of various Spanish and international laws.

Save the Children on Saturday urged Spain to halt the repatriation to Morocco of hundreds of unaccompanied minors who were among thousands of migrants who crossed into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta three months ago.

Save the Children on Saturday urged Spain to halt the repatriation to Morocco of hundreds of unaccompanied minors who were among thousands of migrants who crossed into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta three months ago. The international NGO accused Madrid of failing to protect the rights of the children. Up to 10,000 migrants flooded across the border in North Africa into Ceuta over several days in May as Moroccan border guards stood aside. Also read | Three die, dozens rescued as migrant boat capsizes off Spain's Tenerife This was widely seen as retaliation for Spain's decision to host Brahim Ghali, leader of the Polisario Front, which has for decades fought Morocco for the independence of Western Sahara, for medical treatment. Spain on Friday began sending back more than 700 unaccompanied minors to Morocco. "Repatriations from Ceuta continue today," Save the Children posted on Twitter Saturday. Hoy continúan las repatriaciomes desde Ceuta. Estamos viendo como sacan a niños desde el pabellón deportivo de Santa Amelia para llevarlos a Marruecos. Pedimos el cese de estas reagrupaciones, España no está garantizando la protección de los menores. pic.twitter.com/SSuBZH5IqP — Save the Children Es (@SaveChildrenEs) August 14, 2021 × The NGO called "for an end" to these. "Spain is not guaranteeing the protection of minors," it said. The interior ministry has not officially announced the repatriations and was not immediately available when contacted by AFP. Ione Belarra, leader of the far-left Podemos, the junior member of Spain's ruling coalition, also criticised the transfers in a letter to Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska. Also read | Spain opens migrant camps in the Canaries expecting fresh influx "We have been informed by children's organisations on the ground that the repatriation of minors has begun," she wrote in the letter published in online daily El Confidencial. She said that the operation might be taking place "without strict observance" of various Spanish and international laws.

Save the Children slams Spain over repatriation of minors

The foreign ministers of Morocco and Israel signed three accords on Wednesday during the first visit by a top official from the Jewish state since ties were normalised last year. Nasser Bourita and his Israeli counterpart Yair Lapid signed agreements on political consultations, aviation, and culture.

Foreign ministers of Morocco, Israel sign accords on political consultations, aviation, culture

An international team of archaeologists announced Wednesday that they had uncovered the oldest&nbsp;Stone Age&nbsp;hand-axe manufacturing site in North Africa.

Discovered in Morocco the site, dates back 1.3 million years.

Researchers on the team told journalists in Rabat that the find pushes back in time the start of the Acheulian stone tool industry associated with human ancestor Homo erectus by hundreds of thousands of years.

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In the outskirts of Casablanca, Morocco's economic capital, this site was discovered during excavations at a quarry.

Abderrahim Mohib, co-director of the Franco-Moroccan "Prehistory of Casablanca" programme, said the new discovery "contributes to enriching the debate on the emergence of the Acheulian in Africa."

According to Mohib, the Casablanca site has been investigated for decades and has yielded one of the richest assemblages of Acheulians in Africa.

"It is very important because we are talking about prehistoric time, a complex period for which little data exists."

Mahib said the study was also able to establish the "earliest human presence in Morocco" which was made up of "variants of Homo erectus".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-finds-coelacanth-a-human-sized-dinosaur-era-fish-can-live-for-100-years-392445">Study finds Coelacanth, a human-sized Dinosaur era fish can live for 100 years</a>

Creating tools according to the shape one wants, as shown in the latest find, was a "very important technological advance," he said.

In the past, the Acheulian stone tool industry was regarded as an ancient presence in Morocco dating back 700,000 years.

In 1969, the site of Thomas Quarry I became famous when half a human jaw or mandible was found in a cave there. Now, new finds mean the Acheulian was nearly twice as old as first thought.

The finding is based on a study of stone tools excavated from the site that the 17-member discovery team, comprised of Moroccan, French and Italian researchers.

The news was called a 'chronological rebound' by Moroccan archaeologist Abdelouahed Ben Ncer.

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He said the beginning of the Acheulian in Morocco is now close to the South and East African start dates of 1.6 million and 1.8 million years ago respectively.

French Foreign Ministry, Paul-Valery Montpellier 3 University, and the Moroccan Institute of Archaeology (INSAP) collaborated to develop the "Prehistory of Casablanca" programme.

The project also involved French and Italian laboratories.

Palaeolithic age begins more than three million years ago and ends more than 12,000 years ago, making it the longest period of prehistory.

(With inputs from agencies)

An international team of archaeologists announced Wednesday that they had uncovered the oldest Stone Age hand-axe manufacturing site in North Africa. Discovered in Morocco the site, dates back 1.

An international team of archaeologists announced Wednesday that they had uncovered the oldest Stone Age hand-axe manufacturing site in North Africa. Discovered in Morocco the site, dates back 1.3 million years. Researchers on the team told journalists in Rabat that the find pushes back in time the start of the Acheulian stone tool industry associated with human ancestor Homo erectus by hundreds of thousands of years. Also read | Archeological Survey of India unearths 1100-year-old Shiv linga in Vietnam; Jaishankar calls it 'civilisational connect' In the outskirts of Casablanca, Morocco's economic capital, this site was discovered during excavations at a quarry. Abderrahim Mohib, co-director of the Franco-Moroccan "Prehistory of Casablanca" programme, said the new discovery "contributes to enriching the debate on the emergence of the Acheulian in Africa." According to Mohib, the Casablanca site has been investigated for decades and has yielded one of the richest assemblages of Acheulians in Africa. "It is very important because we are talking about prehistoric time, a complex period for which little data exists." Mahib said the study was also able to establish the "earliest human presence in Morocco" which was made up of "variants of Homo erectus". Also read | Study finds Coelacanth, a human-sized Dinosaur era fish can live for 100 years Creating tools according to the shape one wants, as shown in the latest find, was a "very important technological advance," he said. In the past, the Acheulian stone tool industry was regarded as an ancient presence in Morocco dating back 700,000 years. In 1969, the site of Thomas Quarry I became famous when half a human jaw or mandible was found in a cave there. Now, new finds mean the Acheulian was nearly twice as old as first thought. The finding is based on a study of stone tools excavated from the site that the 17-member discovery team, comprised of Moroccan, French and Italian researchers. The news was called a 'chronological rebound' by Moroccan archaeologist Abdelouahed Ben Ncer. He said the beginning of the Acheulian in Morocco is now close to the South and East African start dates of 1.6 million and 1.8 million years ago respectively. French Foreign Ministry, Paul-Valery Montpellier 3 University, and the Moroccan Institute of Archaeology (INSAP) collaborated to develop the "Prehistory of Casablanca" programme. The project also involved French and Italian laboratories. Palaeolithic age begins more than three million years ago and ends more than 12,000 years ago, making it the longest period of prehistory. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists in Morocco unearth oldest Stone Age hand-axe manufacturing site in North Africa

Israeli carrier Israir launched the first direct commercial flight between the Jewish state and Morocco on Sunday since the countries normalised diplomatic relations in a US-brokered deal last year.

About 100 passengers were on the flight that departed from Tel Aviv to Marrakesh, Israir spokeswoman Tali Leibovitz told AFP, adding that two to three flights per week were planned on the route.

Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said last week that he would visit Morocco shortly after the Israir service was launched.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-orders-massive-reinforcement-of-forces-to-quell-unrest-in-cities-after-gaza-violence-384790">Also read |&nbsp;Israel orders 'massive reinforcement' of forces to quell unrest in cities after Gaza violence</a>

Morocco was one of four regional states to normalise ties with Israel in 2020, along with Bahrain, Sudan and the United Arab Emirates.

The move came as the administration of former US president Donald Trump recognised Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara, a disputed and divided former Spanish colony.

Morocco is home to North Africa's largest Jewish community, which numbers around 3,000. Some 700,000 Jews of Moroccan origin live in Israel.

Rabat had a liaison office in Tel Aviv but relations came to a halt during the 2000-2005 second Palestinian intifada, or uprising.

The normalisation deals between Arab states and Israel have been deemed a "betrayal" by the Palestinians, who believe the process should only follow a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Israeli carrier Israir launched the first direct commercial flight between the Jewish state and Morocco on Sunday since the countries normalised diplomatic relations in a US-brokered deal last year.

Israeli carrier Israir launched the first direct commercial flight between the Jewish state and Morocco on Sunday since the countries normalised diplomatic relations in a US-brokered deal last year. About 100 passengers were on the flight that departed from Tel Aviv to Marrakesh, Israir spokeswoman Tali Leibovitz told AFP, adding that two to three flights per week were planned on the route. Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said last week that he would visit Morocco shortly after the Israir service was launched. Also read | Israel orders 'massive reinforcement' of forces to quell unrest in cities after Gaza violence Morocco was one of four regional states to normalise ties with Israel in 2020, along with Bahrain, Sudan and the United Arab Emirates. The move came as the administration of former US president Donald Trump recognised Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara, a disputed and divided former Spanish colony. Morocco is home to North Africa's largest Jewish community, which numbers around 3,000. Some 700,000 Jews of Moroccan origin live in Israel. Rabat had a liaison office in Tel Aviv but relations came to a halt during the 2000-2005 second Palestinian intifada, or uprising. The normalisation deals between Arab states and Israel have been deemed a "betrayal" by the Palestinians, who believe the process should only follow a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Israeli carrier launches direct flight to Morocco

Morocco has said that it "categorically rejects and condemns these unfounded and false allegations", adding that it was "erroneous" and "false" to say the country had infiltrated the phones of national or foreign public figures, the report said.

Why would Morocco spy on French President?

The sentencing of a Moroccan journalist to five years in prison for indecent assault sparked condemnation Saturday, with media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) deploring a trial "tainted by irregularities".

A Casablanca court on Friday sentenced&nbsp;Soulaimane&nbsp;Raissouni&nbsp;-- on hunger strike for more than 90 days -- &nbsp;after convicting him of indecent assault against another man.

He maintains his innocence and is the latest in a string of journalists critical of Morocco's government to have been jailed for alleged sex crimes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moroccan-journalist-gets-5-year-jail-term-for-indecent-assault-397265">Moroccan journalist gets 5-year jail term for 'indecent assault'</a>

Raissouni, editor-in-chief of now-defunct Akhbar Al Yaoum, was not present in court to hear the verdict, despite being summoned by the judge.&nbsp;

The last time he came to court, on June 10, he appeared skeletally thin and he requested an ambulance and wheelchair to enable him to attend the later stages of court proceedings.

His supporters insist the case is politically motivated and part of an extraordinary official defamation campaign against critical journalists and activists. Morocco says its judiciary is independent.

RSF said Saturday the sentence "follows a trial that was tainted by obvious irregularities" and called for&nbsp;Raissouni&nbsp;to be freed, pending an appeal.

"After such a long hunger strike his health is at stake. He deserves a fair trial," the media watchdog said.

Raissouni, 49, began a hunger strike in April demanding to be provisionally released.

He has been in detention since May 2020 after an LGBT activist accused him of sexual assault.

Moroccan courts have rejected all his release requests, despite a pressure campaign both locally and overseas.

A committee supporting&nbsp;Raissouni, comprising human rights activists from several Moroccan organisations, on Saturday dismissed the verdict as "unjust... severe and incomprehensible".

"There is a political will to instrumentalise justice in order to legitimise injustice," it said in a statement.

It also criticised the court for "failing to... hear any witnesses, present any evidence... or call the defendant to testify" and for "rejecting all the requests of the defence team".

'Justice triumphed'&nbsp;

Miloud Kandil, one of&nbsp;Raissouni's lawyers, termed the verdict "judicial butchery".

"How can you condemn an accused in his absence?" he told reporters after leaving the courtroom.

The plaintiff, however, said "justice has triumphed," in a Facebook post. &nbsp;"The dirty manoeuvres to politicise the case have been in vain."

Raissouni, who has a history of run-ins with the authorities, said in late June he has lost more than 35 kilogrammes (77 pounds), much of it since he began his hunger strike over the "great injustice" of his detention.

His trial began in February but has been delayed several times, including over health concerns.

Earlier this week, the judge ordered&nbsp;Raissouni&nbsp;to appear in court to hear Friday's verdict, but the journalist "refused", according to a statement read in court.

His defence team had boycotted the trial since Tuesday to protest at the judge's refusal to allow&nbsp;Raissouni&nbsp;to be hospitalised.

Raissouni's wife Kholoud Mokhtari said last month that he was "very tired" and "close to death".

His supporters and activists have accused the Moroccan government of trying to silence journalists, mostly by using sex-related charges.

Raissouni's niece, Hajar&nbsp;Raissouni, was a reporter at the same newspaper and was sentenced in 2019 to one year in prison for sex outside marriage and an "illegal abortion" before she was pardoned by King Mohammed VI.

Another journalist, Omar Radi, has been held in solitary confinement on charges of sexual assault and undermining state security, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).&nbsp;

CPJ data show four journalists have been imprisoned in Morocco as of December 2020, three on sex crimes.

The sentencing of a Moroccan journalist to five years in prison for indecent assault sparked condemnation Saturday, with media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) deploring a trial "tainted by irregularities".

The sentencing of a Moroccan journalist to five years in prison for indecent assault sparked condemnation Saturday, with media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) deploring a trial "tainted by irregularities". A Casablanca court on Friday sentenced Soulaimane Raissouni -- on hunger strike for more than 90 days -- after convicting him of indecent assault against another man. He maintains his innocence and is the latest in a string of journalists critical of Morocco's government to have been jailed for alleged sex crimes. Also read | Moroccan journalist gets 5-year jail term for 'indecent assault' Raissouni, editor-in-chief of now-defunct Akhbar Al Yaoum, was not present in court to hear the verdict, despite being summoned by the judge. The last time he came to court, on June 10, he appeared skeletally thin and he requested an ambulance and wheelchair to enable him to attend the later stages of court proceedings. His supporters insist the case is politically motivated and part of an extraordinary official defamation campaign against critical journalists and activists. Morocco says its judiciary is independent. RSF said Saturday the sentence "follows a trial that was tainted by obvious irregularities" and called for Raissouni to be freed, pending an appeal. "After such a long hunger strike his health is at stake. He deserves a fair trial," the media watchdog said. Raissouni, 49, began a hunger strike in April demanding to be provisionally released. He has been in detention since May 2020 after an LGBT activist accused him of sexual assault. Moroccan courts have rejected all his release requests, despite a pressure campaign both locally and overseas. A committee supporting Raissouni, comprising human rights activists from several Moroccan organisations, on Saturday dismissed the verdict as "unjust... severe and incomprehensible". "There is a political will to instrumentalise justice in order to legitimise injustice," it said in a statement. It also criticised the court for "failing to... hear any witnesses, present any evidence... or call the defendant to testify" and for "rejecting all the requests of the defence team". 'Justice triumphed' Miloud Kandil, one of Raissouni's lawyers, termed the verdict "judicial butchery". "How can you condemn an accused in his absence?" he told reporters after leaving the courtroom. The plaintiff, however, said "justice has triumphed," in a Facebook post. "The dirty manoeuvres to politicise the case have been in vain." Raissouni, who has a history of run-ins with the authorities, said in late June he has lost more than 35 kilogrammes (77 pounds), much of it since he began his hunger strike over the "great injustice" of his detention. His trial began in February but has been delayed several times, including over health concerns. Earlier this week, the judge ordered Raissouni to appear in court to hear Friday's verdict, but the journalist "refused", according to a statement read in court. His defence team had boycotted the trial since Tuesday to protest at the judge's refusal to allow Raissouni to be hospitalised. Raissouni's wife Kholoud Mokhtari said last month that he was "very tired" and "close to death". His supporters and activists have accused the Moroccan government of trying to silence journalists, mostly by using sex-related charges. Raissouni's niece, Hajar Raissouni, was a reporter at the same newspaper and was sentenced in 2019 to one year in prison for sex outside marriage and an "illegal abortion" before she was pardoned by King Mohammed VI. Another journalist, Omar Radi, has been held in solitary confinement on charges of sexual assault and undermining state security, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). CPJ data show four journalists have been imprisoned in Morocco as of December 2020, three on sex crimes.

Media watchdog blasts Morocco journalist's 5-year prison term on sex charge

Detained Moroccan journalist Soulaimane Raissouni was sentenced on Friday to five years in jail for indecent assault against another man.

Raissouni, editor-in-chief of now-defunct newspaper Akhbar Al Yaoum, denies the charge and has been on a hunger strike for 93 days. He was not present in court for the sentencing.

His supporters say the case is politically motivated and part of an official defamation campaign against critical journalists and activists.&nbsp;Morocco&nbsp;says its judiciary is independent.

The 49-year-old has been in detention since May 2020 after an LGBT activist accused him of sexual assault.

Raissouni began a hunger strike in April demanding to be provisionally released.

But Moroccan courts have rejected all his release requests, despite a pressure campaign both locally and overseas.

Earlier this week, the judge ordered Raissouni to appear in court to hear Friday's verdict.

The journalist had said he would only come if he was transported there in an ambulance and provided a wheelchair.

Miloud Kandil, his lawyer, termed the verdict "judicial butchery".

"How can you condemn an accused in his absence?" he said.

Raissouni, who has a history of run-ins with the authorities, says he has lost more than 35 kilograms (77 pounds), much of it since he began his hunger strike over the "great injustice" of his detention.

His trial began in February but has been delayed several times, including over health concerns.

The last time Raissouni came to court, on June 10, he appeared skeletally thin.&nbsp;

Human rights groups and press watchdogs have called for his release, while activists have accused the Moroccan government of trying to silence journalists, mostly by using sex-related charges.

Raissouni's niece, Hajar Raissouni, was a reporter at the same newspaper and was sentenced in 2019 to one year in prison for sex outside of marriage and an "illegal abortion" before she was pardoned by King Mohammed VI.

Another journalist, Omar Radi, has been held in solitary confinement on charges of sexual assault and undermining state security, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).&nbsp;

CPJ data show four journalists have been imprisoned in&nbsp;Morocco&nbsp;as of December 2020, three on sex crimes.

Detained Moroccan journalist Soulaimane Raissouni was sentenced on Friday to five years in jail for indecent assault against another man. Raissouni, editor-in-chief of now-defunct newspaper Akhbar Al Yaoum, denies the charge and has been on a hunger strike for 93 days.

Detained Moroccan journalist Soulaimane Raissouni was sentenced on Friday to five years in jail for indecent assault against another man. Raissouni, editor-in-chief of now-defunct newspaper Akhbar Al Yaoum, denies the charge and has been on a hunger strike for 93 days. He was not present in court for the sentencing. His supporters say the case is politically motivated and part of an official defamation campaign against critical journalists and activists. Morocco says its judiciary is independent. The 49-year-old has been in detention since May 2020 after an LGBT activist accused him of sexual assault. Raissouni began a hunger strike in April demanding to be provisionally released. But Moroccan courts have rejected all his release requests, despite a pressure campaign both locally and overseas. Earlier this week, the judge ordered Raissouni to appear in court to hear Friday's verdict. The journalist had said he would only come if he was transported there in an ambulance and provided a wheelchair. Miloud Kandil, his lawyer, termed the verdict "judicial butchery". "How can you condemn an accused in his absence?" he said. Raissouni, who has a history of run-ins with the authorities, says he has lost more than 35 kilograms (77 pounds), much of it since he began his hunger strike over the "great injustice" of his detention. His trial began in February but has been delayed several times, including over health concerns. The last time Raissouni came to court, on June 10, he appeared skeletally thin. Human rights groups and press watchdogs have called for his release, while activists have accused the Moroccan government of trying to silence journalists, mostly by using sex-related charges. Raissouni's niece, Hajar Raissouni, was a reporter at the same newspaper and was sentenced in 2019 to one year in prison for sex outside of marriage and an "illegal abortion" before she was pardoned by King Mohammed VI. Another journalist, Omar Radi, has been held in solitary confinement on charges of sexual assault and undermining state security, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). CPJ data show four journalists have been imprisoned in Morocco as of December 2020, three on sex crimes.

Moroccan journalist gets 5-year jail term for 'indecent assault'

Over 400 undocumented workers, mainly from Morocco and Algeria, are staging a mass hunger strike in Belgium to pressure authorities into granting them the right to remain in the country.

Undocumented workers from Morocco and Algeria stage hunger strike in Belgium

The Berber granaries, considered as one of the oldest banking systems, were used by Amazigh communities inhabiting the mountainous south of Morocco to store all kinds of valuable belongings from documents, jewelry and harvest. Morocco is now planning to include them in UNESCO's world heritage sites list.

Discover Morocco's ancient granaries, "the first indication of the emergence of banks"

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