A Moroccan court in Rabat has sentenced Ibtissame Lachgar, a 50-year-old activist and clinical psychologist, to 30 months in prison on charges of blasphemy. The ruling, confirmed by her lawyer Mohamed Khattab, also includes a fine of 50,000 dirhams (approximately $5,500).
Lachgar, a well-known human rights advocate, was arrested last month after she shared an image of herself wearing a t-shirt with a slogan that authorities deemed offensive. The case has drawn widespread attention both locally and internationally, as critics argue that it represents a direct assault on freedom of expression.
Defense and Appeal
Lawyer Khattab announced that the defense team intends to appeal the ruling, describing the decision as legally flawed and disproportionate. He stressed that Lachgar’s slogan was never intended to target religion but was rather a feminist message aimed at challenging sexism and violence against women.
During an earlier court hearing, Lachgar herself defended her actions, insisting that her message had been misinterpreted and that she sought only to spark debate on gender equality.
Reaction and Outcry
Outside the courtroom, emotional scenes played out as friends, family, and supporters of Lachgar broke down in tears upon hearing the verdict. The Moroccan Association for Human Rights condemned the ruling, calling it “shocking” and an unjustifiable restriction on freedom of opinion and expression.
Rights groups have warned that the conviction could set a dangerous precedent, stifling feminist activism and discouraging other campaigners from speaking out. International observers are now closely monitoring the case, particularly as Morocco has pledged reforms aimed at expanding civic freedoms.
With the appeal process underway, Lachgar’s supporters continue to demand her release, framing the case as a broader struggle for women’s rights and free speech in the country.
