Hundreds of residents in Amizmiz, a town in Morocco, took to the streets to protest against local authorities due to the delayed aid and neglect they have been facing after a devastating earthquake. The earthquake, which occurred on 8th September, was the worst to hit Morocco in over 60 years and resulted in the death of nearly 3,000 people, leaving thousands injured and homeless. The residents claim that authorities have been prolonging the distribution of aid and have neglected their urgent needs.
Following the earthquake, the affected families were provided temporary shelter in tented camps and were promised financial assistance to help in the reconstruction of their homes. However, as winter approaches, the living conditions in the camps have deteriorated due to heavy rains, winds, and dropping temperatures. The protesters demand improved living conditions and accuse local authorities of withholding assistance, including tents, from those who lost their homes.
Despite the withdrawal of the Amizmiz Earthquake Victims’ Coordination group, which initially organized the protest, the residents went ahead with the demonstration. The coordination group had pulled out after local authorities promised to address their concerns. Promises were made to expedite the aid distribution process, provide new tents for those who were not previously given any, as well as those whose tents were damaged by the weather. Additionally, improvements in sanitation, access to water, and electricity were pledged for the displaced families.
In an effort to reconstruct the affected regions and support the over 4.2 million affected individuals, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI announced a budget of 120bn Moroccan dirhams ($11.6bn; £9.4bn) over the next five years. The reconstruction plan includes providing 140,000 dirhams in aid to each household with a completely collapsed home and 80,000 dirhams for households with partial damage to their homes. The government has also initiated a year-long cash relief program, disbursing 2,500 dirhams in monthly assistance to each affected household.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, Morocco’s government faced criticism for refusing certain offers of international aid, despite the urgent need for assistance among the affected population. Some citizens argued that refusing aid is a mistake and that sovereignty and national pride should not be prioritized over the well-being of the people. Activist Maati Mounjib emphasized that even developed countries accept outside help during disasters, emphasizing the essential nature of aid in such situations.
This protest and the ongoing situation in Amizmiz highlight the struggles faced by the residents and the urgent need for proper aid distribution and support from local authorities. The residents demand improved living conditions, access to necessary resources, and transparent and efficient distribution of aid to help them rebuild their lives after the devastating earthquake.
