Morocco has prohibited the distribution of a French periodical that contains offensive cartoons of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The Moroccan government has halted the circulation of Marianne’s issue number 1407, citing the presence of a caricature of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The decision was grounded in Articles 31 and 94 of the nation’s press and publishing legislation, which forbid any content that is disrespectful to Islam.
An informed source reported that the magazine would be barred from distribution across the kingdom due to the offensive nature of the cartoons.
In France and other Western nations, it is not uncommon for magazines and newspapers to publish cartoons that many in the Arab and Islamic worlds find offensive, often leading to widespread protests and even boycott campaigns, the source added.
Marianne, known for its contentious editorial stance, has faced criticism over its portrayal of Islam and its symbols in the past. This recent ban on the publication is the latest development in a series of contentious issues related to the magazine’s content.
Such editorial choices have consistently sparked strong reactions from the Muslim community, both within France and on a global scale.
The ban on Marianne’s issue comes as Morocco seeks to uphold the religious sentiments of its citizens and prevent provocations or disrespectful discourse towards the Muslim faith.
The move reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the religious values and beliefs of its people while addressing concerns over content that may be deemed offensive or disrespectful.