La candidature d’une représentante du Makhzen pour le Prix Mandela, une insulte à la mémoire du militant sud-africain hors pair
Summary of Concerns Regarding Morocco’s Nomination for the Nelson Mandela Prize 2025
The Rif National Party and the Rif Observatory for Human Rights have strongly condemned Morocco’s nomination for the Nelson Mandela Prize for 2025, alleging that the Moroccan government, particularly in the Rif region and Western Sahara, continues to violate human rights. They argue that this nomination is disrespectful to the victims of these abuses and an affront to the legacy of Nelson Mandela, a global symbol of the fight against oppression.
In a statement, the Rif National Party criticized Amina Bouayach’s candidacy for the 2025 award, stating that her endorsement by a totalitarian regime known for its repeated human rights violations tarnishes Mandela’s memory. The party highlighted ongoing severe human rights violations in Morocco, especially in marginalized areas like the Rif and Western Sahara, referencing reports from international organizations that document the abuses perpetrated by Moroccan authorities.
The party pointed specifically to a report from the British think tank Chatham House, which stated that Nasser Zefzafi, a leader of the peaceful Hirak movement in the Rif, is being held under inhumane conditions. Many other activists in the Rif and occupied Western Sahara reportedly suffer from similar mistreatment, facing ongoing oppression, psychological torture, and judicial harassment.
The Rif National Party accused Bouayach of legitimizing the Moroccan regime’s actions, asserting that she has enabled unfair political trials and denied the existence of documented torture practices. They contend that her silence amidst the brutal repression of the Rif movement and her collaboration with Moroccan authorities to silence dissent disqualifies her from being a candidate for an award associated with justice and human dignity. They argue that awarding the Nelson Mandela Prize to a representative of an oppressive regime would betray the foundational principles of the United Nations, transforming the award into a tool for propaganda rather than a recognition of genuine human rights advocacy.
Similarly, the Rif Observatory for Human Rights expressed concern about Bouayach’s nomination, highlighting that it contradicts the principles that led to the establishment of the prize by the UN General Assembly in 2014. They emphasized that laureates should spend their lives serving others and advocating for peace and human rights.
The Observatory reiterated that Bouayach’s candidacy is backed by a state that systematically violates human rights, particularly in marginalized regions such as the Rif and Western Sahara. They noted her controversial role as head of Morocco’s National Human Rights Council, where she supported unfair trials against Rif and Sahrawi activists rather than defending the victims.
Additionally, the Observatory underscored the jury’s moral and legal obligation to adhere to the UN Charter, particularly Article 55, which pertains to international human rights protection. They called for the rejection of Bouayach’s candidacy, urging prize organizers to consider these critical factors.
In conclusion, the nomination of Amina Bouayach for the Nelson Mandela Prize has sparked significant outrage among human rights advocates in Morocco. Both the Rif National Party and the Rif Observatory argue that her association with a regime accused of severe human rights violations undermines the very essence of the award, which is intended to honor those who genuinely uphold the values of justice and human dignity. They warn that recognizing her candidacy would not only dishonor the memory of Nelson Mandela but also perpetuate the injustices faced by countless activists in the region.
