In an unprecedented social and humanitarian initiative aimed at closing the chapter on cases involving “kif” cultivation—an issue that has sparked much political debate over the years—King Mohammed VI has issued a pardon for 4,831 individuals convicted or pursued for cannabis-related cases who meet the criteria for this pardon. This decision was made on the occasion of the anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People and aligns with the implementation of Law No. 13.21 concerning the legitimate uses of cannabis. This law aims to integrate farmers from affected regions into income-generating activities, potentially leading to an economic breakthrough in these targeted areas. Spanish news agency EFE has described this initiative as “unprecedented.”
The royal pardon represents a new step in reinforcing the “reconciliation policy” and provides beneficiaries with the opportunity to enter the field of medical and cosmetic uses of cannabis, facilitating their integration into a legal economy and opening avenues for pharmaceutical industries and economic groups. This action is part of broader strategies aimed at achieving sustainable economic development and improving living conditions in regions impacted by this cultivation.
The royal pardon also reflects a humanitarian gesture towards communities in regions affected by drug traffickers and criminal organizations. This decision could help mitigate social problems and instability, promoting the restoration of balance in these small, affected communities.
This royal gesture follows previous actions, such as the royal pardon for 2,476 people on the occasion of the Throne Day, which also benefited journalists and bloggers convicted of criminal offenses. These royal initiatives illustrate how the royal pardon is an integrated mechanism, based on the values of each national occasion, and draws its objectives from the humanitarian spirit of the king, transcending internal and external political considerations.
Furthermore, the royal pardon on the occasion of the anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People has raised expectations, surprising everyone with its ability to address difficult social situations for a large number of small farmers, allowing them to reintegrate into their social environment and engage in legal, income-generating activities in accordance with national laws.
