Reorganization of the CNP: Mehdi Bensaïd Says Government Amendments Reflect Constitutional Court Decisions

Draft Law 09.26 on the reorganization of the CNP, adopted this Thursday by the Government Council, includes “substantive and procedural amendments,” Bensaïd said during a press briefing focused on developments in the sector’s self-regulation and its future prospects.

The amendments mainly concern the removal of two members from among the “senior publishers,” the reservation of at least one seat for women within each professional organization, and the introduction of a representation system based on proportionality in the allocation of seats.

Regarding the draft decree-law establishing a Special Commission tasked with managing the press and publishing sector, which was withdrawn on Thursday, the minister noted that a legal debate had taken place within the government concerning the management of the CNP — particularly with respect to the issuance of press cards and the handling of staff matters and the Council’s financial obligations during the current period.

In this regard, he recalled that his department adopted an approach grounded in the principle of continuity of public service, “in force across all government departments and other institutions.”

Draft Law 09.26 falls within the framework of constitutional provisions relating to freedom of expression and professional self-regulation, particularly Articles 25, 27, and 28. It comes in response to the need to ensure the continuity of the Council’s mission of professional self-regulation, the promotion of ethical standards, and the democratic and independent safeguarding of the sector.

The bill primarily aims to give legal effect to Decision No. 261/26 issued by the Constitutional Court on January 22, 2026.

Editorial team/le7tv