Ex-Muslims International is horrified by the sentencing of Moroccan feminist and human rights defender Ibtissame Betty Lachgar to 30 months in prison and a $5,000 (MAD 50,000) fine for “blasphemy.”
Betty is a cancer survivor in urgent need of surgery this month. Doctors and lawyers have warned that without this treatment, she risks partial amputation of her arm. To imprison her now — and to deny her surgery — is to place her life and health in immediate danger.
We are gravely concerned by reports that Betty is being held in solitary confinement. In combination with medical neglect, this amounts to cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment. Morocco is not only violating international human rights treaties but also its own constitution, which guarantees the right to health and dignity.
Betty was arrested just days after sharing a photo of herself on X wearing a T-shirt that said “Allah is lesbian” while defending freedom. Meanwhile, those who have issued death threats, threats of violence, and sexual harassment against her remain free and unpunished.
Betty’s lawyers can still file an appeal. We urgently call on Moroccan authorities to release Betty immediately, end her solitary confinement, and ensure she receives the urgent surgery and medical care she needs. We need international human rights organisations and governments to speak out without delay, pressure Morocco to uphold its human rights obligations, and insist on Betty’s right to life-saving treatment.
This sentence is a grave injustice and a direct threat to Betty’s survival. She is threatened, not a threat.