Complaint filed with HACA against Radio Mars for inciting violence

RNI complaint puts Radio Mars under HACA scrutiny

The National Rally of Independents (RNI) party has filed an official complaint with the High Authority for Audiovisual Communication (HACA) against Radio Mars, following remarks made by a sports program host that the party deemed a violation of professional standards and the neutrality required during the election period.

Background and details of the complaint

The party stated in its complaint that the remarks made on September 14, 2026, contained allusions interpreted as incitement to violence, specifically citing the host’s use of the phrase “the desire to stone.” The party considers this a departure from journalistic ethics, describing the media intervention as an aggressive, politically biased attack within a sports programming space.

The party’s stance on media misconduct

The RNI emphasized that the timing of these statements is “sensitive,” as it coincides with an electoral period that requires absolute neutrality and integrity in media coverage. The party accused the host of exploiting his media position to adopt biased political stances, calling on the HACA to take necessary legal action.

The context of the dispute between RNI and PAM

This tension arises amidst a fierce political competition between the RNI and the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM). The friction has been fueled by recent statements concerning the hosting of the 2030 World Cup final at the Hassan II Stadium, which prompted a response from the Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch. This charged atmosphere has directly affected radio programming, placing the station at the center of a legal and political storm.

Legal demands to regulate the audiovisual landscape

This incident opens a discussion on the need to review laws governing the audiovisual sector in Morocco. Observers argue that current penalties may not be sufficient to ensure media compliance with professional responsibilities. Demands are growing for the HACA to implement stricter measures, potentially including the revocation of licenses for repeated or serious violations, to protect the public sphere from incitement and ensure the prevalence of reasoned discourse.