Morocco Activists Face Charges for Criticizing Earthquake Response

Four activists in Morocco face charges, including defamation, following their criticism of the government’s response to the 2023 earthquake. Said Ait Mahdi is in custody, while three others are free pending trial. The earthquake resulted in significant casualties and widespread destruction, prompting calls for urgent reconstruction efforts from the government, which has issued numerous permits and allocated significant funds for rebuilding.

On Monday, four activists focusing on the needs of victims from the 2023 earthquake in Morocco faced prosecution. Specifically, Said Ait Mahdi, leader of the Al Haouz Earthquake Victims Coordination, is currently in custody, charged with defamation, insulting public officials, and disseminating misleading information. The charges arise from social media criticisms directed at the government’s response to the catastrophe. The remaining three defendants, still facing accusations of disrespecting public officials, have been released pending trial.

The earthquake that struck in September 2023 resulted in nearly 3,000 casualties and left tens of thousands of homes in ruins across the High Atlas mountains. Ait Mahdi’s organization has been an outspoken advocate for prompt rebuilding efforts to assist families affected by the disaster. In response, Moroccan authorities have provided over 57,000 reconstruction permits and allocated a substantial budget of $740 million to facilitate the restoration of homes damaged during the earthquake.

In September 2023, Morocco experienced a significant earthquake that devastated various regions, particularly impacting the High Atlas mountains. This natural disaster led to substantial loss of life and substantial property damage, prompting widespread calls for government intervention. The situation has spurred various social movements advocating for the rapid reconstruction of affected areas, particularly emphasizing the need for efficient and transparent recovery processes. Activists have utilized social media to voice their concerns over the government’s responsiveness and accountability in addressing the urgent needs of the earthquake victims, which has led to legal repercussions for some of them.

The legal proceedings against the four activists exemplify the tension between governmental authority and civil society in Morocco, particularly in light of the response to the crisis caused by the 2023 earthquake. While the Moroccan government has initiated reconstruction efforts and allocated funds to aid recovery, the activists’ criticisms highlight ongoing concerns regarding the adequacy and transparency of these measures. The outcome of the trial may further impact public discourse surrounding disaster management and governmental accountability within the nation.

Original Source: newscentral.africa