Moroccan Prime Minister halts controversial motorcycle monitoring campaign

On Thursday, the Prime Minister announced a decision to temporarily halt the Ministry of Transport and Logistics' campaign targeting motorcycles, following widespread controversy sparked by the seizure of numerous bikes across Moroccan cities. 

The initiative primarily aimed at motorcycles that have been illegally modified to enhance their speed. Authorities employed advanced technology to gauge speed, with compliance defined as not exceeding 58 km/h. Exceeding this limit results in the motorcycle being impounded, a violation report being filed, and forwarding to the public prosecutor. Offenders also face financial penalties ranging from 5,000 to 30,000 dirhams and potential prison sentences from three months up to a year, as stipulated by the traffic code.

The National Road Safety Agency defended the campaign by highlighting the alarming statistic that motorcycle users represent over 40% of all road accident fatalities.

The suspension of the campaign comes in response to a wave of protests. The website Le360 reported that the Prime Minister directly contacted Abdelsamad Qaiouh, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, to request an immediate cessation of the operation. Furthermore, a 12-month grace period has been established, allowing motorcycle users to gradually comply with legal standards, with an emphasis on awareness and education rather than immediate punitive actions.