The National Union of Moroccan Journalists in the Marrakech-Safi region has formally disassociated itself from all actions attributed to individuals claiming to represent the media community in demanding a share of the traditional Eid sacrifice. The union asserts that such actions are unrelated to professional journalism and violate the ethical standards of the profession.
This statement follows the publication of an article addressing the alleged benefits received by those referred to as "media correspondents" in relation to the Eid sacrifice. The article has sparked widespread discontent within journalistic circles in the region, as the union claims it propagated a damaging stereotype, portraying professional journalists as beggars or charity seekers.
Abdel Wahid Talbi, the newly elected head of the regional branch of the National Union of Moroccan Journalists, emphasized that the aforementioned article does not represent professional journalists and fails to reflect the reality of those working in the sector. He underscored that journalism is a regulated profession, supported by legal frameworks and representative institutions that advocate for rights and uphold professional dignity.
Talbi condemned the association of journalists with the request for an Eid sacrifice from authorities, describing it as a "rejected insult" and a blatant slander against the media community. He stressed the urgent need to eliminate such behaviors that tarnish the ethical standards of the profession and undermine its credibility.
Additionally, Talbi issued a direct appeal to the Wali (Governor) of Marrakech-Safi to investigate and verify the identities of those who approach authorities under the guise of journalists or media representatives seeking privileges or assistance without legal grounds or clear representative status. He called for the enforcement of the law against anyone impersonating a journalist or speaking on behalf of the sector outside recognized professional institutions.
The union has also signaled its intention to pursue legal and judicial proceedings against anyone who discredits journalists or tarnishes the reputation of the press and media sector, firmly reserving the right to take legal action against those linking the journalistic body to practices of begging, exploitation, or extortion.
This controversy arises just days after the election of a new regional bureau for the National Union of Moroccan Journalists in Marrakech-Safi, during a general assembly chaired by union president Abdelkabir Khashichan, attended by executive bureau members and approximately sixty professional journalists holding cards from the National Press Council, where Abdel Wahid Talbi was unanimously elected as the head of the new regional branch.
With this assertive stance, the union appears determined to confront any actions it perceives as detrimental to the reputation of professional journalism in the region, sending a clear message that the dignity of journalists is not a subject for exploitation or slander.
As reported by bladna24.ma.
