Morocco has reopened debate on a key reform of its civil procedure code, reigniting discussions around legal fairness and judicial security. The renewed examination of Draft Law 58.25 began this week in the House of Representatives, following a ruling by the Constitutional Court on August 4.
Meeting under the Justice and Human Rights Committee, lawmakers gathered Monday in the presence of Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi to discuss the bill’s revised trajectory. The court’s decision sparked broad consensus among MPs, who welcomed it as a meaningful step toward strengthening legal guarantees and enhancing the legislative framework. Several members described it as a milestone that reinforces the independence of the judiciary, upholds fair trial standards, and deepens respect for the rights of the defense.
Parliament’s majority coalition praised the government’s decision to submit the bill to the Constitutional Court, calling it a responsible move—especially given the public controversies triggered by certain provisions in the original draft. For them, this step signals a forward-looking approach to modernizing Morocco’s judicial system—one that aligns with social progress and promotes transparency and fairness.
Opposition lawmakers also welcomed the court’s ruling, interpreting it as a strong message in favor of stable judicial decisions and increased protection for citizens within the legal system. Still, they expressed frustration that some concerns raised during constitutional deliberations had not been fully addressed. Despite these reservations, they voiced hope that the detailed article-by-article review would lead to a balanced version of the bill that fully aligns with Morocco’s constitutional principles.
Responding to the various comments, Minister Ouahbi defended the legality of the provisions that remained intact after the court’s review, arguing that these elements continue to respect constitutional standards. He emphasized that determining whether a law aligns with the Constitution involves interpretation and does not diminish the authority of the legislature.
One issue that drew particular attention was the organization of remote court hearings. On this point, the Justice Minister noted that the Constitutional Court’s decision now allows for these proceedings to be formally regulated under an organic law, to be incorporated within the broader structure of the civil procedure code.
