New draft law aligns National Press Council with constitutional principles
Morocco’s government approved draft Law No. 26.25 on Thursday to restructure the National Press Council, reinforcing its independence and role in self-regulating the journalism sector, Morocco’s Press Agency (MAP) reported.Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid presented the draft during the weekly Cabinet meeting, which was followed by a press briefing led by Government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas.
Baitas explained that the draft law aligns the council’s organisation with constitutional principles related to freedom of expression and press self-regulation, particularly articles 25, 27, and 28 of the Moroccan Constitution. The Bill also builds on the findings of the temporary committee tasked with managing the press and publishing sector under Law No. 15.23.
The government intends to ensure the Council continues its mission of overseeing journalism ethics and strengthening the sector through independent and democratic governance.
Baitas added that the new draft law seeks to preserve the progress achieved under Law No. 90.13, implemented in 2016, while maintaining the council’s professional and independent nature. The law confirms the council’s core responsibilities, especially its authority to regulate the press and publishing industry.
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