Said Ait Mahdi, a Moroccan earthquake victims’ activist, was sentenced to three months in prison for defamation after criticizing the government’s response to the 2023 El Haouz earthquake. Acquitted of charges were three associates accused of insulting public officials, while Ait Mahdi faces additional financial penalties. His advocacy group has called for accelerated aid and reconstruction efforts for the thousands affected by the disaster that left nearly 3,000 people dead and thousands displaced.
A Moroccan activist, Said Ait Mahdi, has been sentenced to three months in prison for defamation following his criticism of the governmental response to the devastating earthquake in El Haouz province in September 2023. Ait Mahdi, who heads a victim support group, has been in custody since December 23. The court also charged three of his associates for allegedly insulting public officials. All four were involved in advocating for swifter reconstruction efforts and more aid for the affected communities.
The court found Ait Mahdi guilty based on complaints lodged by local officials concerning social media posts deemed offensive. In addition to his prison term, he has been ordered to compensate civil parties with 10,000 dirhams (approximately $1,000). His defense attorney has indicated that they will pursue an appeal against the ruling. Meanwhile, the Moroccan authorities claimed to have initiated an extensive reconstruction plan, issuing over 57,000 permits and rebuilding more than 35,000 damaged homes in the aftermath of the earthquake, which resulted in nearly 3,000 fatalities and significant infrastructural losses.
This case highlights the tensions often encountered between public discourse and governmental accountability, particularly in the context of disaster recovery. Ait Mahdi’s group continues to advocate for victims, pushing for urgent action to improve living conditions for those affected by the natural disaster. As the authorities present their reconstruction efforts, many victims remain displaced, living in tents amid ongoing winter conditions.
The Septermber 2023 earthquake, measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale, particularly devastated El Haouz province and surrounding areas. The Moroccan government’s allegation of defamation underscores the challenges faced by activists in voicing concerns about the handling of post-disaster recovery in Morocco.
As Morocco moves forward with its $11 billion reconstruction plan, the case against Ait Mahdi serves as a reminder of the critical importance of civil society’s role in advocating for accountability and transparency, especially following significant national tragedies.
In September 2023, El Haouz province, located south of Marrakech, was struck by a powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake that had severe repercussions. An estimated 3,000 lives were lost, with thousands more injured, alongside the extensive destruction of infrastructure, including around 60,000 homes. This disaster prompted an urgent governmental response and the establishment of an $11 billion, five-year reconstruction plan aimed at facilitating recovery efforts and rebuilding affected communities. Amid these developments, public activists like Said Ait Mahdi have emerged to challenge the adequacy of the response, advocating for greater transparency and expedited restoration of living standards for the earthquake victims.
The imprisonment of Said Ait Mahdi marks a significant moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding governmental response to natural disasters in Morocco. His case emphasizes the precarious position of activists who seek to hold authorities accountable while navigating the complexities of defamation laws. As the nation embarks on an ambitious reconstruction agenda, the advocacy efforts of groups like Ait Mahdi’s may influence public perception and the effectiveness of recovery initiatives, underscoring the importance of civic engagement in disaster management.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
