Moroccan artists, intellectuals petition for rapper's release

A prominent group of Moroccan cultural and political figures has launched a petition to secure the freedom of rapper Mehdi El Oubbi, who has been detained since July 13, 2026. El Oubbi faces charges of "insulting a constitutional body," stemming from the lyrics of his music.

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This case does not concern Mehdi El Oubbi alone, but also the respect for the fundamental principles of the rule of law, including the presumption of innocence, the guarantees of a fair trial, and freedom of creativity and expression, constitutionally guaranteed.

The petition, signed by a diverse array of intellectuals, politicians, journalists, and artists, expresses deep concern over El Oubbi's case. Signatories include well-known figures such as filmmakers Faouzi Bensaidi and Saad Chraibi, musicians Younes Makri and Hoda Abouz, and politicians Omar Balafrej and Nabila Mounib. Prominent human rights advocates like Latifa Jbabdi and Khadija Ryadi also lent their support.

The signatories assert that El Oubbi's case transcends the individual, touching upon fundamental principles of the rule of law. They highlight the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial, as well as the constitutionally guaranteed freedom of creativity and expression. International human rights declarations, including Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, are cited as further backing for these freedoms.

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Pre-trial detention remains an exceptional measure, while the presumption of innocence, as a universal and fundamental principle, is the norm until a final judicial ruling is issued.

The petition further argues that El Oubbi, who legally resides in Marseille, France, and has a recognized artistic career, poses no risk to the judicial process. It contends that pre-trial detention is an exceptional measure, and the presumption of innocence should prevail until a final verdict is reached. The group urges an end to the specific targeting of rappers and artists for their opinions and creative output, calling for respect for artistic freedom and the protection of artists' rights in line with Morocco's constitutional and international obligations.

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We call for an end to the prosecution of rappers in particular, and artists in general, for their opinions, positions, and artistic creations, and for respect for freedom of creativity and expression and the specificity of rap music.