Lawyers in Congo and Morocco launch strikes over legal reforms

Lawyers in Congo and Morocco are engaging in professional strikes to protest legal developments and the detention of colleagues.

In Congo, the Brazzaville Bar has suspended professional activities effective 2 October. This decision follows a similar move by the Pointe-Noire Bar in late September. The suspension was triggered by the detention of three lawyers: Me Bob Kaben Mboko Massouka, Me Boniface Carle Malalou, and Me Admiré Mabondzo. The Brazzaville Bar, led by Bâtonnière Me Andrée Brigitte Nzingoula, stated they will not participate in the upcoming criminal session unless their colleagues are released or their cases are listed in the next session.

In Morocco, the Association des barreaux du Maroc decided to temporarily suspend a work stoppage on 7 October. This follows protests regarding a new law organizing the legal profession. The association noted that the timing allows the new legislative session and government to address perceived malfunctions in the legislative process. Aziz Rouibah, the Bâtonnier of the Rabat Bar, emphasized that resuming work does not mean abandoning demands for professional independence or the rejection of laws that impact the traditions and foundations of the profession.