Moroccan Court Increases Sentence for Activist Criticizing Earthquake Recovery
A Moroccan court increased the prison sentence for activist Said Ait Mahdi to one year and sentenced three others from the Al Haouz Earthquake Victims Coalition to three months for insulting public officials. This follows criticism of local authorities’ earthquake recovery efforts after a massive earthquake devastated the region in September 2023, leading to significant loss and property destruction. Despite ongoing reconstruction, challenges, including fraud, persist in recovery efforts.
A Moroccan court of appeal has increased the prison sentence for activist Said Ait Mahdi to one year, revising its previous verdict of three months. Additionally, the court sentenced three other members of the Al Haouz Earthquake Victims Coalition, who were initially acquitted, to three months in prison for insulting public officials. The initial sentencing was delivered on January 13, with Ait Mahdi also ordered to pay MAD 10,000 (approximately $1000) in damages to each civil party involved.
Said Ait Mahdi was charged with defamation and making false claims regarding local authorities’ response to earthquake recovery efforts. This case is linked to the aftermath of the disastrous 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Marrakech in September 2023, responsible for nearly 3,000 deaths, over 5,600 injuries, and the destruction of around 60,000 homes.
Following the earthquake, many survivors found themselves living in temporary tent accommodations for extended periods, especially in the Al Haouz province, which suffered severe damage. Local organizations, including Ait Mahdi’s coalition, have been pressing for urgent reconstruction efforts and more support for those affected by the disaster.
By early December 2024, Moroccan authorities had issued 57,000 reconstruction permits, with reports stating that over 35,000 homes were either rebuilt or undergoing construction. Moreover, the government allocated approximately MAD 140,000 (around $14,000) per family to aid in the rebuilding of homes destroyed by the earthquake, demonstrating a proactive governmental response to the crisis.
Despite these efforts, challenges have persisted, including instances of fraud among construction contractors. The Ministry of Interior reported in January that over 27 individuals became victims of such fraud. An inter-ministerial committee was established to manage the ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts effectively.
Financial assistance has been extensive, with 63,766 families receiving monthly support, and the government has committed over MAD 800 million (approximately $79.29 million) to enhance healthcare facilities in the impacted areas, ensuring that recovery efforts are robust and inclusive.
The increase in prison sentences for activist Said Ait Mahdi and his coalition members reflects the government’s attempt to maintain control over criticism related to the earthquake response. While significant reconstruction efforts are underway and financial aid is being distributed, the ongoing challenges and reports of fraud illustrate the complexities involved in recovery processes. Continued advocacy and scrutiny remain crucial as Morocco progresses in its restoration efforts after the devastating earthquake.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
