Morocco: Bail Denied for Feminist Activist Ibtissame Lachgar Facing Blasphemy Charges

Bail Request Rejected Despite Serious Health Concerns

A Rabat court has denied the request for provisional release filed by the legal team of Ibtissame Lachgar, a 50-year-old Moroccan feminist and activist. She faces prosecution for “insulting Islam,” a charge that stems from a controversial image posted on social media. Her defense emphasized her deteriorating health, citing a cancer diagnosis and the urgent need for surgery.

Appearing in court visibly weakened and with her left arm in a sling, Lachgar’s condition raised concern among her legal representatives. “She is scheduled for critical surgery in September. The risk of amputation is high if the procedure doesn’t occur on time,” warned her lawyer Naima El Guellaf. Fellow attorney Mohamed Khattab added that “her physical condition is alarming.”

Charges Sparked by Social Media Post

The case traces back to a July social media post featuring Lachgar wearing a t-shirt emblazoned with the word “Allah” followed by “is lesbian.” The image came with a caption denouncing Islam, alongside other religions, as “fascist, phallocentric, and misogynistic ideologies.” The post ignited a wave of online outrage, including threats of rape and stoning, as well as demands for her arrest.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings and Harsh Detention Conditions

Lachgar has been held in El Arjat prison near Rabat since August 12 and remains in solitary confinement. “She is denied contact with other inmates,” said El Guellaf. Despite the defense submitting a detailed medical report, the public prosecutor opposed her release — a position ultimately upheld by the court. The trial is set to resume on September 3.

Facing Up to Five Years in Prison

Lachgar is charged under Article 267-5 of the Moroccan Penal Code, which punishes defamation or insult against Islam with six months to two years in prison. The sentence can extend to five years if the offense is committed publicly, including via electronic communication.

The Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH) has condemned her detention, calling it “a violation of freedom of speech and expression.”

Latest LGBTQ News

Stay informed with the latest developments and in-depth coverage of LGBTQIA+ issues from around the world. Queer Vibes Mag is your go-to source for news, analysis, and inclusive reporting aimed at empowering communities and advocating for equality. Explore updates, trends, and important stories shaping the global LGBTQ conversation.