Appeal Court Sentences Journalist Ali Lmrabet to 3 years in Jail

The court of appeal of Rabat sentenced this Tuesday journalist Ali Lmrabet to 3 years in jail and maintained the ban of his twin satirical publications “Demain” in French and Douman in Arabic.

The first instance court had on May 21st sentenced Lmrabet to 4 years in jail, the ban of his publications and a 20,000 Dirhams (about $2,000) fine. He was sent to prison immediately after the sentence was handed out.

The journalist faced charges of slander of the King’s person and offense against Morocco’s territorial integrity and sacred values.

Lmrabet’s attorney, Abderrahim Jamai, told the press after the verdict he and his client will examine the possibility to lodge an appeal with the supreme court.