Disciplinary action against MP Rim Chabat sparks debate in Parliament

A well-informed source in the House of Representatives revealed to Hespress AR that the disciplinary action against MP Rim Chabat, from the Front of Democratic Forces Party, will act as a warning, ensuring this doesn’t happen again.

The source explained that her behavior was referred to the committee based on the internal rules, which clearly outline the principles of the parliamentary code of ethics.

It pointed to Article 390 of these rules, which stresses “the importance of responsibility and commitment, as well as honesty and integrity.”

The article also stipulates that MPs should express their views politely and respectfully, avoiding language that could be threatening, intimidating, provocative, or offensive.

The source added that “the Ethics Committee will look into the language used by Chabat when addressing the government, and based on that, a warning will be issued.”

When asked in case the behavior could repeat after the warning, the spokesperson said, “this has never happened before. A warning is just that.” They added, “we hope it doesn’t happen again and this won’t become an exception.”

Hespress AR also spoke with an Ethics Committee member, who confirmed the case is being reviewed under Article 390.

The member said, “addressing the head of the government with language like “I’d be ashamed if I were you” isn’t an institutional language. MPs have freedom of speech, but provided that it doesn’t contradict the internal rules, especially the ethics code.”

The committee member stressed that “the case will be discussed soon when the committee meets,” adding that “a warning will be issued to the MP to comply with the internal rules, ensuring they’re properly enforced and maintaining the credibility of constitutional institutions in the eyes of the public.”

Rachid Talbi Alami previously said the referral was based on a “breach of the constitution” by Rym Chbat during the monthly question session with the head of government when she raised the issue of public transportation, which falls under local government responsibilities.

Hespress source explained that “Chabat’s case involves several issues, including the language used to address Aziz Akhannouch and turning Parliament into a platform for protests, which is unacceptable.”

It added that “allowing such behavior wasn’t an option, especially since our country was hosting the draw for the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 on Monday. It was also unacceptable to promote an image that could be used by those who oppose us to question the Kingdom’s ability to host major football events like AFCON or the 2030 World Cup.”