Morocco introduces sanctions against election fake news

Morocco has introduced new legal provisions to combat the spread of fake news and digital disinformation ahead of the elections scheduled for September 23. Under Organic Law 53.25, which modifies the law regarding the House of Representatives, new measures target the use of modern information and communication technologies to undermine the electoral process.

The new Article 51-bis criminalizes the distribution of false news, fabricated documents, or the unauthorized use of a person's image or words to defame candidates or infringe upon the privacy of voters. These measures specifically address the risks posed by artificial intelligence and digital tools used to create manipulated content intended to cast doubt on the integrity and transparency of the elections.

To balance these regulations with the right to freedom of expression, the law requires proof of criminal intent, meaning the actions must be performed with the specific aim of causing harm or illicitly influencing the election. Violators face penalties including two to five years of imprisonment and fines ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 DH.