RABAT, July 30 (NNN-AGENCIES) — Moroccan King Mohammed VI has granted amnesty to 2,476 prisoners on Throne Day, a significant national holiday in Morocco, said the Moroccan Ministry of Justice on Monday.
The pardon was granted to 2,278 inmates who saw reductions in their prison sentences, while 182 others had their prison terms or fines annulled, or both, the ministry said in a statement.
Furthermore, 16 prisoners convicted of extremism and terrorism were also included in the amnesty after completing rehabilitation programs where they renounced extremism and terrorism, according to the statement.
The Throne Day, celebrated annually on July 30, commemorates the anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s ascension to the throne in 1999.
Royal pardons are traditionally granted in Morocco during major national commemorations or religious festivals, underscoring the king’s role in the justice system and societal reconciliation efforts.
The royal pardon came in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s reign. The Ministry of the Royal Household, Protocol, and Chancellery has announced a series of events to celebrate this milestone.
At 9 PM Tuesday, King Mohammed VI will address the nation in a speech broadcast live on radio and television. This address is expected to cover various national issues and reflect on the progress made during his 25-year reign.
Meanwhile, the King will also host Tuesday an official reception at the M’diq-Fnideq prefecture square in the town of M’diq. This event will bring together numerous dignitaries and notable figures to honor the occasion.
The following day, July 31, the King, in his capacity as Supreme Commander and Chief of the General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces, will preside over the swearing-in ceremony of new officers from military, paramilitary, and civilian institutions at the Royal Palace in Tetouan.
This solemn ceremony will be followed by a luncheon hosted by the General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces.
The celebrations will conclude with the traditional allegiance ceremony at the Place du Mechouar in the Royal Palace of Tetouan. This event marks a high point in the royal commemoration and reaffirms the bond between the King and his people. — NNN-AGENCIES
