Moroccan Court Increases Sentence for Activist Criticizing Earthquake Response

A Moroccan appeals court has raised activist Said Ait Mahdi’s prison sentence to one year for defamation related to earthquake recovery criticism. Three other activists received three-month sentences for insulting officials. The government has issued 57,000 reconstruction permits, aiding families while addressing fraud concerns. Financial support totals around MAD 800 million for healthcare improvements in affected regions.

On June 1, a Moroccan appeals court has lengthened the prison sentence for activist Said Ait Mahdi from three months to one year. Additionally, the court has altered its previous ruling regarding three members of the Al Haouz Earthquake Victims Coalition, who were earlier acquitted, now receiving sentences of three months for insulting public officials. Ait Mahdi had faced charges related to defamation and publishing false claims, primarily stemming from his critiques of the local response to earthquake recovery efforts after the September 2023 disaster in Marrakech.

The earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.8, resulted in profound tragedy, claiming nearly 3,000 lives, injuring over 5,600 individuals, and destroying approximately 60,000 homes, especially across the High Atlas mountain region. Many survivors were compelled to reside in temporary tent accommodations for an extended period. The Al Haouz province, which is close to Marrakech, experienced the most significant devastation, prompting local organizations to advocate for expedited reconstruction and enhanced support for impacted families.

As of early December 2024, Moroccan authorities have issued approximately 57,000 reconstruction permits. Reports indicate that more than 35,000 homes are completed or underway in the rebuilding process. The government has also initiated measures to assist families, allocating approximately MAD 140,000 (around $14,000) for home reconstruction. Accountability has become critical, highlighted by the Ministry of Interior reporting that more than 27 victims have experienced fraud by various contractors.

In response to the situation, an inter-ministerial committee has been formed to effectively manage the reconstruction efforts. Financial support remains extensive, with approximately 63,766 families receiving monthly assistance from the government. Furthermore, the administration has committed over MAD 800 million (roughly $79.29 million) to improve healthcare facilities in the regions affected by the earthquake.

In conclusion, the increased prison sentence for activist Said Ait Mahdi underscores the tensions surrounding critiques of state actions in the aftermath of the Al Haouz earthquake. The ongoing reconstruction efforts reveal both significant governmental support and challenges. The situation highlights the importance of accountability in recovery processes as local organizations continue to advocate for the needs of affected families.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com