Court Increases Activist’s Sentence Amid Earthquake Response Criticism
A Moroccan court has increased activist Said Ait Mahdi’s prison sentence from three months to one year for defamation related to criticisms of earthquake recovery efforts. Additionally, three members of his coalition received three-month sentences for insulting officials. The earthquake caused considerable devastation, prompting ongoing reconstruction and assistance efforts, although challenges such as fraud have arisen.
On January 13, a Moroccan court sentenced activist Said Ait Mahdi to three months in prison for defamation regarding his criticisms of the local authorities’ response to the Al Haouz earthquake disaster. Recently, the court of appeal increased Ait Mahdi’s sentence to one year, also impacting three other members of his organization, who were initially acquitted but now face three months in prison for insulting public officials.
The activist’s charges stemmed from accusations of publishing false claims that violated privacy after the devasting 6.8-magnitude earthquake in Marrakech, which resulted in nearly 3,000 fatalities, more than 5,600 injuries, and substantial property destruction, particularly in the High Atlas region. In the wake of the disaster, many survivors lived in temporary accommodations, prompting local organizations to advocate for expedited reconstruction efforts during an ongoing relief process.
By early December 2024, authorities had issued 57,000 reconstruction permits, with reports indicating that over 35,000 homes were either completed or under construction. To support recovery, the government allocated approximately MAD 140,000 per family for home reconstruction and has established an inter-ministerial committee to oversee these efforts.
Despite these initiatives, recovery challenges persist, including reports of fraud involving construction contractors affecting over 27 individuals. Financial assistance has been widespread, with 63,766 families receiving monthly aid, and over MAD 800 million has been designated for enhancing healthcare facilities in the devastated areas.
The recent legal developments surrounding activist Said Ait Mahdi underscore the tensions between civil society and governmental responses to the Al Haouz earthquake. The increasing prison sentence reflects ongoing scrutiny of public officials’ conduct in disaster recovery. While significant reconstruction efforts are underway, challenges remain, highlighting the complex dynamics of post-disaster management in Morocco.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
