Hicham Beloui, the head of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, praised the pivotal role played by the defense bar in upholding justice and protecting rights and freedoms. He emphasized that the legal profession is a key partner in the justice system and an integral part of the institutional framework of a state governed by law.
This statement was made during Beloui’s speech at the opening session of the 32nd Conference of the Moroccan Bar Association, held on May 15 in Tangier. He appreciated the association’s invitation to participate in this professional event and commended the chosen theme of the conference, which reflects lawyers’ awareness of their constitutional and societal roles in supporting justice.
Beloui stated that the relationship between the judiciary and the legal profession is not merely a professional one, but rather a partnership grounded in sharing the same message and values. He recalled the essence of the royal message highlighting the unity of roles and responsibilities between the defense bar and the judiciary in serving justice. He affirmed that a fair trial cannot be achieved without ensuring the rights of defense and providing the professional conditions necessary for its optimal practice.
Beloui regarded the conference as an important national occasion to reflect on six decades of continuous work that have marked the profession’s history. He noted that many lawyers have contributed to establishing its traditions and defending its independence, highlighting that the role of a lawyer is not limited to courtrooms but extends to political, human rights, and educational arenas, giving the profession a unique societal prominence.
He asserted that the legal profession today faces new challenges imposed by rapid economic and technological changes, particularly regarding the digitization of justice and the development of artificial intelligence tools. This necessitates a collective mobilization to advance the profession without compromising its independence and traditions. He explained that this requires a conscious and responsible engagement in modernization efforts, in line with relevant royal directives.
The head of the Public Prosecutor’s Office underscored the need to strengthen cooperation among components of the justice system to write a bright chapter in the history of justice in Morocco. He called for achieving synergy between the defense and the public prosecution for the benefit of citizens and the protection of their rights. He announced the commitment of public prosecution judges, within their legal powers, to support the legal profession, protect its practitioners, and provide a conducive environment for them to perform their duties responsibly and with dignity.
In concluding his remarks, Beloui expressed his gratitude to the Moroccan Bar Association for organizing the conference, congratulating the association’s president, Zayani, on his leadership, and praising the hospitality and organization provided by the Tangier Bar. He expressed hope that the conference discussions would culminate in practical recommendations that contribute to the development of the justice system and enhance the role of the legal profession in serving society.
