A Moroccan court increased the prison sentence of activist Said Ait Mahdi to one year for criticizing the earthquake recovery efforts. Three other coalition members received three-month sentences for insulting officials. The September 2023 earthquake caused severe destruction in Marrakech, with local organizations advocating for quicker reconstruction while the government provides financial aid and oversees recovery efforts.
A Moroccan court of appeal has increased the prison sentence for activist Said Ait Mahdi to one year due to his criticisms of the local authorities’ response to the Al Haouz earthquake disaster. Originally sentenced to three months on January 13, Ait Mahdi was also ordered to pay MAD 10,000 (approximately $1,000) in damages to each civil party involved in the case. Additionally, the sentences for three other members of the Al Haouz Earthquake Victims Coalition have been altered from acquittal to three months in prison for allegedly insulting public officials.
Said Ait Mahdi was charged with defamation and disseminating false claims regarding the earthquake recovery process in the Marrakech region, following the 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck in September 2023. This earthquake caused significant devastation, leading to nearly 3,000 deaths, over 5,600 injuries, and approximately 60,000 homes being destroyed, particularly in the High Atlas mountain region. Many survivors still reside in temporary tent accommodations due to the extensive damage.
The Al Haouz province, near Marrakech, sustained the most catastrophic damage. Local organizations, including Ait Mahdi’s coalition, have been advocating for accelerated reconstruction efforts and enhanced support for displaced families. By early December 2024, Moroccan authorities reported issuing 57,000 reconstruction permits and that over 35,000 homes were either completed or under construction to assist the affected population.
The government has actively responded to the crisis by allocating approximately MAD 140,000 (around $14,000) in aid per family for home reconstruction. However, reports have emerged regarding fraudulent activities by construction contractors, with more than 27 individuals being victims of such fraud, complicating recovery efforts. To streamline rehabilitation efforts, an inter-ministerial committee has been assigned to oversee the rebuilding processes across affected areas.
Further financial support has been provided, with monthly assistance granted to 63,766 families in need. In addition, the government has pledged over MAD 800 million (approximately $79.29 million) to enhance healthcare facilities in regions impacted by the earthquake, indicating a commitment to both housing and health recovery following the disaster.
The Moroccan court’s decision to increase the activist’s prison sentence indicates the government’s stance on criticism related to its earthquake response. The aftermath of the disastrous Al Haouz earthquake has prompted substantial government intervention, yet challenges persist, particularly related to reconstruction fraud and inadequate living conditions for the survivors. Responses from local organizations highlight the ongoing need for transparency, support, and effective recovery strategies.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
