Repression Bound

The arrest of former senator and NGO leader Mohamed Ould Gadda in Mauritania, following his efforts to submit evidence on a sensitive police laboratory corruption file, has triggered criticism from MPs and opposition figures who view the case as a test of protections for whistleblowers and civil liberties.​

Morocco is seeing a steady rise in court cases against social media influencers, as prosecutors apply existing penal‑code provisions to online speech that once drew little official reaction. Recent prosecutions targeting YouTubers and TikTok personalities for alleged false information, insult, privacy violations, and offenses against public morals highlight how visible digital creators have become a frontline test of the country’s approach to free expression.

Moroccan streamer Ilyas El Maliki was arrested 25 November 2025 in El Jadida, following a police summons tied to a defamation complaint; details remain under investigation while public scrutiny grows.

Morocco’s former minister Mohamed Ziane remains in detention due to two separate criminal cases, one finalized and one still under cassation review. Authorities argue the detention is legally required, while international rights groups challenge aspects of the proceedings.