In the wake of the devastating September 8, 2023 earthquake, residents from the Al Haouz and Taroudant provinces, primarily belonging to the Amazigh community, found themselves facing not only the physical aftermath of the disaster but also systemic neglect and exclusion. Frustrated by a lack of response from local and regional authorities, they converged in a collective protest outside the Parliament in Rabat, seeking justice, aid, and acknowledgment of their dire circumstances.
I. Voices of Anguish:
The demonstrators, representing diverse communities affected by the earthquake, voiced their anger at what they perceived as exclusion and irregularities in the compensation process. Their grievances centered on the harsh climatic conditions exacerbating their suffering in the aftermath of the disaster.
II. Unmet Demands:
Protesters rallied from various impacted regions, united in their demand for the resolution of their cases and access to the support designated for earthquake victims. They called for the implementation of measures outlined in royal instructions, emphasizing the urgent need for authorities to address the deficiencies in the compensation process and expedite relief efforts to alleviate ongoing hardships.
III. Policy of Exclusion:
During the demonstration, protesters condemned what they described as an ongoing policy of exclusion and indifference. They expressed frustration at the unjust deprivation of a subset of affected individuals from emergency financial aid intended for affected families, leading to their exclusion from support allocated for reconstruction and housing, as mandated by His Majesty the King.
IV. Addressing Unjust Classification:
Demonstrators also voiced their discontent over the neglect of processing files for those unjustly labeled as “non-residents.” The protesters vehemently rejected this classification based on workplace addresses in their national ID cards, arguing that it unfairly excluded deserving individuals from the urgently needed assistance and support in the aftermath of the earthquake.
V. Escalating Frustration:
Justifying their decision to escalate the protest to Rabat, the demonstrators recounted a series of vigils and protest marches conducted in the affected regions. Expressing deep disappointment at the lack of response from local leaders and authorities, they highlighted a growing frustration among affected individuals who, having exhausted local avenues, sought to amplify their voices on a broader scale.
VI. Unyielding Determination:
The decision to bring their grievances to the capital reflects the unyielding determination of the protestors to garner recognition and assistance. Despite facing systemic neglect and exclusion, they remain resolute in their pursuit of justice, urging authorities to acknowledge their plight, reconsider the distribution of assistance, and provide the much-needed relief and compensation for the challenges they face in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake.
The collective outcry of these earthquake victims stands as a poignant plea for justice and aid, highlighting the urgent need for authorities to address their unmet demands and provide the support necessary for rebuilding shattered lives in the aftermath of this tragic event.
