Jailed Moroccan rapper “prisoner of conscience”: rights group
A picture taken on September 11, 2011 shows a young Moroccan holding a banner as he demonstrates in Rabat, during a protest called by the country’s youth-based ‘February 20’ Movement to demand political and social changes and the release of Moad Al-Haqed. Rapper protester and ‘February 20’ Movement activist, Moad Al-Haqed, has been detained for four days, after he has been charged of the aggression of a counter demonstrator, his lawyer said.
Is he guilty of assaulting a monarchist or just damning anti-monarchy lyrics?
The trial of Moroccan rapper Mouad Belrhouat — also known as El-Haqed, or "The Sullen One" — has begun in Casablanca, Reuters reports. He is being charged with assault after reportedly injuring a monarchist in a brawl.
But Belrhouat, who writes rap songs with searing commentary critical of the Moroccan king, is a political pawn for a regime cracking down on dissent, Morocco's most prominent rights group says.
We rely on support from listeners and readers like you to keep our stories free and accessible to all. Monthly gifts are particularly meaningful because they help us plan ahead and concentrate on the stories that matter. Will you consider donating $10/month, so we can continue bringing you The World? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!