A Moroccan court has extended activist Said Ait Mahdi’s prison sentence from three months to one year for defamation after his criticism of the government’s earthquake response. This action follows extensive damage from a significant earthquake in September 2023, resulting in numerous casualties and displacement. Ait Mahdi’s group advocates for swift reconstruction and aid for victims, amid government claims of progress in rebuilding efforts.
A Moroccan appeals court has increased the prison sentence of activist Said Ait Mahdi to one year, a significant rise from the three-month sentence he initially received for defamation. Ait Mahdi, who champions the rights of victims affected by the 2023 earthquake, has been held in custody since December 23 due to his criticism of the government’s handling of the disaster response.
In January, a Marrakesh court had sentenced Ait Mahdi to three months for charges including defamation, insult, and making false claims that violated privacy rights. However, in a surprising decision, the appeals court has now lengthened this term to one full year. His attorney, Mohammed El Ghalloussi, expressed shock at the severity of this new sentence, labeling it as excessively harsh.
Additionally, three other defendants, who had initially been acquitted, received sentences of four months for insulting public officials. The basis of the charges appears to stem from complaints by local officials regarding offensive social media posts.
The El Haouz province, one of the areas severely impacted by the 6.8-magnitude earthquake in September 2023, has faced extensive destruction, with nearly 3,000 fatalities, 5,600 injuries, and the loss of approximately 60,000 homes. Many families are enduring harsh winter conditions while residing in temporary tents.
Ait Mahdi’s organization continues to advocate for expedited reconstruction efforts and increased assistance for those displaced. The Moroccan government reported in December that it had granted 57,000 reconstruction permits, with more than 35,000 homes either completed or under construction. Authorities have earmarked $11 billion for a comprehensive five-year reconstruction and development initiative that will benefit the six provinces affected by the disaster.
The situation surrounding Said Ait Mahdi reflects a broader issue regarding governmental response to critical voices in Morocco. The escalation of his sentence alongside the struggles of earthquake victims underscores the complex interplay between activism and official accountability. As reconstruction efforts progress, the demands for faster aid highlight the ongoing challenges faced by affected communities.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
