On Wednesday, September 3, the Rabat Court of First Instance sentenced feminist activist Ibtissame Lachgar to 30 months in prison and imposed a 50,000 dirham fine for «offending Islam». This ruling came after she posted a photo on social media wearing a t-shirt with the slogan «Allah is lesbian». Lachgar, 50, a clinical psychologist and a fervent defender of individual freedoms, denied any intention of blasphemy. She explained that the controversial phrase was part of a global feminist initiative against gender-based violence and was not meant to offend Islam. Her defense highlighted that the image had been shared internationally, including in London in May 2025, without provoking any controversy. Her legal team, led by Me Mohamed Khattab, has announced plans to appeal the decision. They are also considering invoking the law on alternative sentences due to Lachgar's health issues. Battling cancer, she has been detained in El Arjat prison since August 12. The Moroccan Association for Human Rights (AMDH) has called the trial «political» and an «attack on freedom of expression». Ibtissame (Betty) Lachgar, co-founder of the Alternative Movement for Individual Liberties (MALI), is known for her unwavering stance on women's and minority rights. While her activism has often put her at odds with authorities, this is the first time she has received such a severe sentence.
