Revelations made by journalist Hamid El Mahdaoui ignited fervent debates during Monday's oral question session in the House of Representatives. The issue was thrust into the spotlight by members of the Istiqlal, PJD, PPS, and FDG parties. The Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mehdi Bensaid, addressed the topic of the draft law concerning the National Press Council (NPC), which is currently under review in the House of Councillors. He emphasized that the NPC «is an institution independent from the government, akin to the two Houses of Parliament or the Economic Council. The minister has no authority over it... If there is a desire to bring this institution back under the ministry's supervision, that's a separate discussion. But I believe we have moved beyond that point». Bensaid expressed confidence in «resolving the legal and administrative issues» faced by the NPC. «This is an experience we're navigating with its benefits and challenges», he observed. He reminded the MPs that the «elite» currently leading the National Press Council, now facing criticism, «had unanimous approval in 2018, when we were in opposition. These individuals will complete their mandate and then exit the institution», he remarked. The minister sidestepped the controversy surrounding the Ethics Committee of the provisional commission responsible for overseeing the press and publishing sector, despite persistent demands from the deputies. All called for the ministry to take action to restore confidence in an institution crucial for regulating the press and publishing landscape in Morocco.
