Moroccan Court Increases Sentence for Activist Criticizing Earthquake Response

A Moroccan court has increased activist Said Ait Mahdi’s prison sentence to one year for criticizing the government’s response to the 2023 Al-Haouz earthquake, charging him with defamation. Additionally, three other coalition members were sentenced to three months in prison for insulting officials. The earthquake resulted in extensive casualties and destruction, prompting widespread reconstruction efforts from the government, which continues to face challenges such as fraud in recovery operations.

On January 13, a Moroccan appellate court increased the prison sentence of activist Said Ait Mahdi to one year for his criticism of the local authorities’ response to the Al-Haouz earthquake. The court also reversed the earlier acquittal of three other members of the Al Haouz Earthquake Victims Coalition, sentencing them to three months for insulting public officials. Ait Mahdi had initially received three months and was ordered to pay MAD 10,000 (approximately $1,000) in damages due to charges of defamation and violating privacy in his critiques of the earthquake recovery efforts in Marrakech.

The charges against Ait Mahdi arose following the devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Marrakech in September 2023, resulting in significant casualties and destruction. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives, over 5,600 sustained injuries, and around 60,000 homes were destroyed, primarily in the High Atlas mountain region, with many survivors living in temporary accommodations for prolonged periods. The Al Haouz province suffered the utmost devastation, prompting local organizations, including Ait Mahdi’s coalition, to advocate for quicker reconstruction and substantial support for the displaced families.

By December 2024, Moroccan authorities reported having issued 57,000 reconstruction permits, with more than 35,000 homes either completed or under construction. To aid in rebuilding efforts, the government allocated about MAD 140,000 (approximately $14,000) per family. Nevertheless, challenges have emerged, as reported in January, with over 27 individuals defrauded by construction contractors during the recovery process.

To enhance oversight of rebuilding initiatives, an inter-ministerial committee has been established, ensuring effective management of reconstruction activities. Financial assistance has been widely distributed, with 63,766 families receiving monthly financial support. Furthermore, the Moroccan government committed more than MAD 800 million (around $79.29 million) to improve healthcare facilities in the earthquake-affected regions, demonstrating its commitment to comprehensive recovery and support.

In conclusion, the Moroccan court’s decision to increase Said Ait Mahdi’s sentence highlights ongoing tensions regarding the government’s accountability towards earthquake recovery efforts. Despite the challenges faced, significant strides have been made in reconstruction, with substantial financial assistance provided to affected families. The government’s initiative to better healthcare facilities and management structures indicates a focused response to rebuilding disturbed communities.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com