Demands for Fair Compensation in Marrakech's Road Opening Project
On July 19, 2026, residents affected by the road opening project in the old neighborhood of Mahamid (Block 32 - Depot Hassin) in Marrakech have brought forth serious concerns regarding their exclusion from compensation and integration opportunities. Despite being included in the official census conducted by relevant authorities, these individuals claim they have been unjustly denied benefits. They argue that this exclusion violates fundamental principles of equality and equal opportunity.
In an urgent appeal directed at several officials, including the Minister of National Territory Planning, Urbanism, Housing, and City Policy, the Minister of the Interior, the Governor of the Marrakech-Safi region, and the Mayor of Marrakech, the affected individuals asserted their participation in official census processes related to the project. They highlighted that their names were recorded and assigned numbers on approved lists, acknowledging their legal status and connection to the properties involved in the project.
However, the applicants expressed their astonishment at what they termed "unjustified exclusion." They were informed that they could not benefit from compensation or integration due to claims of not residing in their homes at the time demolition began. They explained that their absence was the result of dire circumstances, particularly damages caused by the Al-Haouz earthquake, which made it impossible for them to conduct repairs because their properties were tied to the road opening project.
The affected individuals emphasized that the administrative census serves as an official document solidifying their entitlement to benefits. They contend that ignoring the results of this census and solely relying on the criterion of actual residence has deprived them of rights they have awaited for years, while others who underwent the same procedures received compensation.
This situation raises serious questions about the adherence to legal security principles and fairness among individuals affected by the same project. Authorities were aware of their situation and had previously held meetings with them regarding the management of this matter.
The residents are demanding an investigation into the reasons behind their exclusion and a reassessment of their cases based on fair criteria that acknowledge the results of the official census and the unique circumstances that necessitated their departure from their homes. They seek to ensure that they receive the same rights granted to others affected, thereby upholding social justice and protecting citizens' rights.
As reported by jamaalfnapress.ma.
