Morocco: An Opponent of Normalization Sentenced to a Heavy Prison Sentence

BY: Hana Saada

ALGIERS- In a world still shaken by the tragic events in Palestine, Morocco persists in its journey towards normalization with the Zionist entity, but dissenting voices within the kingdom are met with harsh repression. The recent case of Saïd Boukiout, a Moroccan vehemently opposed to normalization, exemplifies the challenges faced by those who dare to challenge this evolving diplomatic landscape.

Saïd Boukiout’s Disagreement

Saïd Boukiout’s ordeal epitomizes the suppression of opponents of normalization in Morocco. Hailing from Qatar, this 48-year-old Moroccan had his world rocked by the signing of the normalization agreement between Morocco and the Zionist entity in December 2020, brokered under the former American President Donald Trump’s administration. This agreement came at the cost of the United States recognizing “Moroccan sovereignty” over Western Sahara, a decision that deeply rattled Boukiout.

In response to this historic diplomatic shift, Boukiout openly voiced his opposition to the agreement on social media platforms. His passionate dissent earned him a reputation as a vocal critic of normalization, both inside and outside Morocco.

A Return to Morocco under High Surveillance

In July of this year, Saïd Boukiout decided to return to his homeland, but the welcome he received was far from warm. He was promptly arrested and brought to trial on charges of “insulting the king,” a seemingly unrelated charge that concealed the real reason behind his prosecution – his relentless opposition to normalization with the Zionist entity.

After a swift trial, Boukiout was handed a heavy sentence of 5 years in prison and a substantial fine of 40,000 dirhams, equivalent to approximately 3,600 euros. On October 9, the Rabat Court of Appeal upheld this harsh sentence, effectively silencing one of the most prominent voices against normalization within Morocco.

Silencing Dissent in Morocco

Public opinion within Morocco remains overwhelmingly opposed to normalization with the Zionist entity. Yet, any manifestation of this opposition is promptly stifled. In recent times, opposition to normalization has intensified, fueled by ongoing events in Palestine and a growing sense of solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

Ahmed Ouihmane, the president of the Moroccan Observatory against Normalization, has openly challenged the Moroccan government, urging them to reconsider their path toward normalization or risk grave consequences. “It is normalization that will bring it down,” Ouihmane warned, highlighting the deep-seated dissent that simmers beneath the surface.