By Tayyaba Munir
Ms.Munir is a final year law student at Islamic International University and currently serves as an Assistant Researcher in the Registry Department of OICOA Member Institute, Federal Tax Ombudsman of Pakistan. Ms. Munir also holds the honor of being a Youth Ambassador for Federal Tax Ombudsman for the year 2024. She also serves as a TV Anchor for Pakistan’s first legal channel Just1 TV.
Pakistan is poised to host a distinguished guest, His Excellency Mohamed Benalilou, at the 10th OICOA Board Meeting in Islamabad. Appointed as the Ombudsman of the Kingdom of Morocco by King Mohammed VI on December 13, 2018, His Excellency’s role extends beyond national borders. He also serves as the President of the Association of the Ombudsmen and Mediators of the French-speaking countries (AOMF) and is a member of OICOA, bringing a wealth of experience and perspective to the table.
Born in 1975, H.E. Mohamed Benalilou is not only a family man with two children but also boasts a postgraduate degree in law, underscoring his substantial educational background. This foundation has been pivotal in shaping his journey through various important judicial roles in Morocco.
At the national level, His Excellency’s career is marked by significant positions. Before his current role, he served as the President Chamber of the Supreme Court and held various administrative roles within the Ministry of Justice, including director of studies, cooperation, and Human Resources. His experience as an advisor to the Minister of Justice in Criminal Law Policy, a member of the national Committee to examine appeals taxation, and other key positions, highlight his multifaceted expertise in the judicial sphere. Additionally, his tenure as a judge in different capacities, including the Administrative Court and the special Court of Justice, underscores his depth of experience in the judiciary.
His passion for sharing knowledge is evident in his teaching roles at the Highest Institute of the Judiciary, where he specializes in criminal law and criminal proceedings. He also contributes as a professor at the college of judicial, economic, and social sciences in Rabat. His membership in the Highest Council of Judicial Power and the Economic Social and Environmental Council further cements his status as a significant figure in Morocco’s legal framework.
Internationally, His Excellency’s influence extends through his presidency of the AOMF and memberships in the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI), the Association of Mediterranean Ombudsmen, and OICOA. His leadership in these organizations demonstrates his commitment to promoting the principles of the Ombudsman on a global scale.
His Excellency’s dedication to development and collaborative initiatives is evident in his tenure as Mediator of the Kingdom of Morocco. A notable example is the agreement he signed with Ms. Amina Bouayach, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH), aimed at enhancing human rights education and sharing expertise in ombudsman office operations. His active participation in the Third Plenary Session of the International Ombudsman Conference and the insights he shared on Moroccan governance illustrate his dedication to improving public administration and the functioning of public offices.
The focus of H.E. Mohamed Benalilou on developing international relationships between ombudsman offices is clear from his efforts like the bilateral meeting with his Mozambican counterpart, Mr. Isaque Chande. This meeting, centered around implementing a Memorandum of Understanding between Morocco and Mozambique for cooperation in ombudsman activities, showcases his eagerness to contribute to the global growth of ombudsman institutions.
In conclusion, His Excellency’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and the fight against corruption is evident in his professional consultations in the field of Justice. His visionary leadership, both nationally and internationally, through collaborative initiatives, has contributed significantly to the Moroccan legal landscape. His efforts go beyond national borders, upholding the concept of the ombudsman globally and leaving a lasting impact on the internation
