The United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders has raised concerns Morocco regarding allegations of «harassment, physical attacks, political threats, and surveillance» targeting Ali Salem Tamek, president of CODESA, an organization closely linked to the Polisario. In her communication, Irish human rights expert Mary Lawlor stated that «on October 21, 2023, plainclothes Moroccan security agents prevented the holding of the first national congress of CODESA (Collective of Human Rights Defenders in Western Sahara), which was planned to take place at Mr. Tamek's home in Laayoune due to the inability to organize it in a public venue». «On October 10, 2024, Moroccan security agents surrounded Mr. Tamek's house in his absence and allegedly vandalized the electrical box, causing a power outage», Ms. Lawlor added. According to her, «the alleged actions would violate, among other things, the norms of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Morocco acceded on May 3, 1979. In particular, Article 19 guarantees the right to freedom of expression, Article 21 the right to peaceful assembly, and Article 12 the right to freedom of movement». In its response, Morocco's permanent mission clarified that «regarding the allegations of physical attacks and harassment, it is important to note that the images broadcast by members of 'CODESA' clearly contradict this accusation. These images show numerous individuals inside Mr. Ali Salem Tamek's home chanting hostile slogans before attempting to gather on public roads. The intervention of law enforcement occurred in accordance with the legislation in force, following complaints from residents about the behavior of the participants at this meeting». Moroccan authorities categorically refute the accusation that Mr. Tamek was subjected to restrictive searches at the airports of Casablanca and Laayoune. They emphasize that "the assertions made in the communication do not reflect reality at all" and add that "the individual concerned has not filed any complaints with the competent administrative and judicial authorities to assert the rights he claims were violated."
