Moroccan activists advocating for earthquake victims faced charges of defamation and insult in a Marrakesh court, including Said Ait Mahdi. Legal actions were initiated following complaints from local officials regarding social media posts. The September 2023 earthquake devastated Al Haouz province, prompting calls for accelerated reconstruction efforts and financial aid for affected families. 57,000 reconstruction permits have been issued as of December, as part of a multi-billion dollar rebuilding plan.
Four activists, representing the interests of victims of the 2023 earthquake in Morocco, were brought before a Marrakesh court on Monday. They face charges including defamation, insult, and spreading falsehoods aimed at damaging the privacy of individuals, according to their lawyer, Mohamed Nouini. The head of the Al Haouz Earthquake Victims Coordination, Said Ait Mahdi, has been in custody for a week, while three other defendants, charged with insulting public officials, remain free. These legal actions stem from complaints lodged by local authorities regarding social media posts considered offensive by the officials.
The earthquake that struck Al Haouz province, south of Marrakesh, in September 2023, registered a magnitude of 6.8, resulting in the deaths of nearly 3,000 individuals and injuring thousands more. In its wake, the disaster destroyed tens of thousands of homes throughout Morocco, particularly in the High Atlas mountain range, compelling numerous families to endure winter conditions while living outdoors. Ait Mahdi has been a vocal advocate for enhancing reconstruction initiatives and increasing assistance for families affected by the calamity.
Up until early December, Moroccan authorities had issued approximately 57,000 permits for reconstruction, with over 35,000 housing projects either completed or in progress, as detailed in a government statement from December 2. Following the earthquake, a five-year reconstruction plan was announced by Moroccan authorities, backed by an estimated budget of $11.7 billion, with around $740 million allocated for aiding affected families in rebuilding their homes, distributed in phases.
The context of the legal proceedings against the activists arises from the severe earthquake that impacted Morocco on September 8, 2023. The earthquake primarily devastated the Al Haouz province, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread destruction of property. In response to this disaster, activists have sought to advocate for victims’ rights and expedited reconstruction efforts. Their legal troubles highlight the tension between government authorities and civil society in the aftermath of a national tragedy, especially concerning freedom of expression and accountability in the disaster response.
The situation regarding the activists brings to light important issues surrounding freedom of expression and government accountability in Morocco post-earthquake. With charges stemming from their criticisms of the response to the disaster, the activists underscore the challenges faced by those advocating for victim support and reconstruction initiatives. As the country embarks on a significant reconstruction effort, including a five-year plan and substantial financial commitments, it remains crucial to ensure that the voices of affected communities and their advocates are heard and respected in the ongoing reconstruction process.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
