Morocco residents protest for aid weeks after devastating earthquake

Weeks following a devastating earthquake that left their homes in ruins, hundreds of Amizmiz residents in Morocco have taken to the streets to voice their grievances against local authorities. Amizmiz, situated 34 miles (55km) to the south of Marrakesh, bore the brunt of the earthquake that struck on September 8, the most severe to hit Morocco in over six decades. The disaster claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 people, leaving thousands more injured and homeless. Residents of the town are now accusing local authorities of delayed aid and abandonment. In the aftermath of the earthquake, authorities relocated affected families to tented camps and pledged financial support to facilitate the reconstruction of their homes. However, protesters contend that the conditions within these camps are deteriorating. They cite harsh weather conditions, with heavy rains, strong winds, and plummeting temperatures as winter approaches, as pressing concerns. Furthermore, protesters allege that local authorities are withholding assistance, including tents, from some residents who lost their homes. The demonstration proceeded on Tuesday, even after the Amizmiz Earthquake Victims’ Coordination group, which initially organized the protest, withdrew. The group stated that they withdrew based on promises from local authorities to address their concerns. The assurances from authorities include expediting assistance, providing new tents to those previously without, and assisting those whose tents have been damaged by adverse weather. The authorities also pledged to enhance sanitation within the camps and ensure access to water and electricity for the displaced residents. Morocco’s King Mohammed VI announced last month a substantial commitment of 120 billion Moroccan dirhams ($11.6 billion) over five years to rebuild regions affected by the earthquake and support more than 4.2 million people impacted by the disaster. The plan entails providing 140,000 dirhams in reconstruction aid to each household with a collapsed home and 80,000 dirhams to each household with partial damage to their residence. Earlier this month, the government initiated the disbursement of 2,500 dirhams in monthly assistance to each affected household as part of a year-long cash relief program. Morocco’s government faced criticism in the aftermath of the earthquake for rejecting offers of international aid, despite the urgent needs of thousands. Some citizens and activists argued that prioritizing sovereignty and national pride over essential assistance was not suitable during such a crisis.