Rabat – In a decisive move towards penal reform, the House of Representatives has adopted Bill 43.22 on alternative sentences. The bill, which received 72 votes in favor and 29 against, was presented by the Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi.
Ouahbi emphasized that this legislation marks a significant step in modernizing the penal system, a priority repeatedly highlighted by HM King Mohammed VI. « The drafting and adoption of this text represent a major milestone in the reform process, » Ouahbi stated. « This modern penal policy aims to enhance the legal framework, strengthen alternative mechanisms, and increase opportunities for the release, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates. »
The minister further highlighted the importance of effectively implementing alternative sentences and coordinating the roles of various stakeholders. The bill proposes to bolster the role of the public prosecutor in the enforcement and oversight of these sentences.
In addition, alternative sentencing also grants extensive discretionary power to injunction judges, assigns the implementation of these sentences to sentencing judges, and entrusts the General Delegation for Penitentiary Administration and Reintegration with monitoring their execution.
Ouahbi assured that his department would promptly draft regulatory texts for the use of electronic bracelets and ensure the necessary resources for their implementation within the legally mandated timeframe. He also outlined several measures that stakeholders would need to take.
« Stakeholders will promote the use of alternative sentences and raise public awareness about the importance and nobility of this approach, encouraging coexistence with those sentenced under it, » Ouahbi noted. « They will also provide the necessary material and logistical resources to ensure the effective implementation of these sentences. »
He further explained that the current penal policy reflects a strong belief that short-term custodial sentences are not the most appropriate solution for the reform and reintegration of convicted individuals. « Custodial sentences are a costly means of punishment, especially given the issue of prison overcrowding, » Ouahbi concluded.
