Non-Assistance to Disaster Areas of Marrakech: Dounia Filali Accuses Mohamed VI of Crimes Against Humanity
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS – In an outspoken move, Moroccan activist and journalist Dounia Filali has publicly accused King Mohamed VI of Morocco of crimes against humanity. Her accusatory statements come in the wake of the Moroccan government’s refusal of humanitarian aid from several countries, leaving thousands of Moroccan lives hanging in the balance, with many still trapped beneath the rubble of a devastating earthquake. Dounia Filali made these accusations in a recent post on her social media platform, formerly Twitter, causing shockwaves throughout the nation.
This grave situation has further deepened as numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have criticized the government’s inadequate support for affected families who find themselves left to fend for themselves in the aftermath of the disaster. The slow response in providing relief has significantly diminished the chances of locating survivors trapped under the rubble, exacerbating the crisis.
In parallel, various Moroccan associations have raised concerns over the official victim figures released by Moroccan authorities, casting doubt on the accuracy and transparency of the information being provided to the public.
Adding to the chorus of criticism is Adnane Filali, the husband of Dounia Filali, who has also drawn attention to King Mohamed VI’s conspicuous absence in the early hours following the earthquake that struck the Marrakech region. King Mohamed VI’s absence, which lasted nearly 24 hours, was punctuated by a deafening silence, raising questions about the leadership vacuum in a time of crisis. It is noteworthy that the Makhzen regime failed to declare the affected region a disaster zone, a customary step in the face of such natural disasters.
The earthquake that has rattled the Marrakech region has not only caused widespread destruction but has also brought to the forefront serious concerns about the responsiveness of the Moroccan government to the crisis. As rescue efforts continue and the nation grapples with the aftermath of this catastrophe, the accusations made by Dounia Filali and others raise critical questions about leadership and accountability during times of crisis.
