Moroccan King Pardons Journalists on Throne Anniversary

Morocco's King Mohammed VI has pardoned 2,476 convicts, including prominent journalists Taoufik Bouachrine, Omar Radi, and Soulaimane Raisouni, in a move seen as a response to widespread criticism of their politically motivated convictions. The pardons were announced on Throne Day, marking the 25th anniversary of the king's reign, and are described as a humanitarian gesture aimed at promoting tolerance and rehabilitation within society. The pardoned journalists have faced serious charges, including sexual assault, which they have denied, and their trials have been condemned by human rights advocates as retaliatory against their critical reporting. The royal pardon also included individuals convicted on extremism charges who had undergone rehabilitation. This action highlights the ongoing struggle for press freedom in Morocco and the impact of governmental policies on civil liberties.