House committee adopts laws on high court, parliamentary immunity lifting

The committee of justice, legislation and human rights of the House of Representatives (parliament lower chamber), adopted Wednesday two draft laws on the creation of the high Court, which will be competent in trying government members, and the lifting of parliamentary immunity.

Justice minister, Mohammed Bouzoubaa, said the first draft determines the court prerogatives court and the competence of the investigation committee in charge of collecting accusation data and fact reconstitution.

The draft includes all guarantees to ensure a fair trial, he said.

The Moroccan constitution stipulates that the "government members are legally responsible of crimes and offences committed during their term as ministers." Article 89 of the constitution underlines that "They (government members) may be indicted by the two Houses of Parliament and referred to the High Court of Justice for trial."

The indictment proposal should be signed by at least the quarter of the members of the House where the proposal is first initiated.

The draft aimed at lifting deputies' immunity ensures the application of Article 39 of the constitution and determines procedures to be followed in case a deputy commits an offense or a crime.