Morocco Fisheries Secretary Clarifies Vessel License File

Morocco's Secretary of State for Fisheries, Zakia Driouch, has issued clarifications regarding a file concerning the license for the fishing vessel "Jebou Allah." Recent discussions had attempted to connect her name to the licensing process, prompting Driouch to explain the administrative history.

According to Driouch, the administrative procedures related to the vessel began years before she assumed her current role. Official documents indicate that the vessel "Jebou Allah," which ceased operations in 1995 and was demolished in 1999, underwent a lengthy administrative journey. Several decisions were made concerning its license replacement prior to her appointment.

Driouch highlighted that the administration had previously rejected requests to replace the vessel on multiple occasions. These rejections included decisions issued in December 1999, June and October 2000, and a renewed refusal in July 2020. The primary reasons cited were the failure to meet legal and regulatory conditions, particularly concerning the expiration of the deadline for submitting the replacement application.

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The attempt to involve my name in this file is not based on any decision or action issued by me.

The Secretary of State further noted that a formal ministry communication on September 21, 2022, confirmed the continued validity of the rejection decision. Driouch stressed that any attempt to involve her name in this file lacks basis in any decision or action taken by her. She believes such attempts disregard the chronological sequence of administrative decisions made before she took office and could present an inaccurate picture to the public.

Driouch affirmed that her stance is grounded in respect for legal procedures and official documentation. She urged reliance on documented facts when discussing matters related to the management of the maritime fishing sector.

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This ignores the chronological sequence of administrative decisions made before I took responsibility, and may present an inaccurate picture of the facts to the public.