Controversial Social Media Post Leads to Arrest of Moroccan Activist
Moroccan feminist and human rights advocate Ibtissame Lachgar was detained by authorities after a provocative image she shared on social media caused widespread backlash in late July. The photo, posted from her personal account @IbtissameBetty, showed her wearing a T-shirt with the phrase “Allah is lesbian.” Accompanying the image was a caption that condemned Islam as “fascist, phallocratic, and misogynistic,” as well as a broader critique against organized religions. The post quickly went viral, prompting strong reactions online, with many users demanding legal action against her.
Wave of Threats and Harassment Follows Post
Following the viral post, Lachgar—well known for her advocacy on LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and secularism—became the target of a surge of online abuse. The activist reported receiving “thousands of rape and death threats,” along with incitements to violence such as lynching and stoning. According to Lachgar, the controversial slogan was intended as a provocative feminist expression, not as an attack on personal religious beliefs.
Authorities Launch Investigation
On Sunday, August 10, the Public Prosecutor’s Office at the Rabat Court of First Instance issued a statement confirming an official investigation into Lachgar’s actions. Authorities cited the post as containing “expressions offensive to God” and labeled the caption as “insulting to the Islamic religion.” Under Moroccan law, suspects may be held for up to 48 hours during preliminary investigations before further legal steps are taken.
Moroccan Laws on Religious Offenses
In Morocco, blasphemy or insults directed at Islam are criminal offenses. Under the country’s penal code, such actions can result in a prison sentence ranging from six months to two years, and fines of 20,000 to 200,000 dirhams (around €2,000 to €20,000). If the offense is deemed to have been committed in public or through digital platforms, the sentence may increase to a maximum of five years in prison.
Image credit: @IbtissameBetty on X