Moroccan activists face trial for criticizing earthquake response

Four Moroccan activists advocating for victims of the 2023 earthquake appeared in court Monday, facing charges including defamation and insulting public officials, their lawyer told AFP.

Said Ait Mahdi, leader of the Al Haouz Earthquake Victims Coordination, has been detained for a week on allegations of spreading false claims and harming individuals’ privacy. The charges stem from social media posts critical of local officials. Three other activists, also accused of insulting public officials, remain free. Ait Mahdi’s defense has requested his release pending trial on January 6.

The 6.8-magnitude earthquake in September 2023 devastated Al Haouz province, killing nearly 3,000 people and leaving thousands homeless. Activists have called for faster reconstruction efforts and more support for affected families. Moroccan authorities have initiated a $11.7 billion, five-year reconstruction plan, with $740 million allocated for rebuilding homes. Over 35,000 homes have been completed or are under construction, the government reported in December.