Washington, DC
23 November 2008

To whom it may concern,

MoroccoBoard, the Moroccan American community media Group in the US, regrets the excessive punitive fines levied against Moroccan Daily , Al Massae, and considers that these kinds of rulings by Morocco’s Court system threatens the emerging independent media and freedom of  the press that is currently enjoyed by Moroccans.

It is of the utmost importance that Morocco nurtures an independent press and strengthens its freedom.

The recent Court rulings with excessive penalties are going in the opposite direction.

We are looking forward to a resolution of this matter that will enhance Morocco's image, as the country that has made the biggest strides toward democracy in the Region.

 Morocco Board Media Group