The trial of 21 people charged in connection with the deadly collapse of two residential buildings in Fez has been postponed until Sept. 7, after a nationwide lawyers’ strike prevented the case from proceeding as scheduled.
The first hearing had been set for Monday, Aug. 10, before the financial crimes division of the Fez Court of Appeal. With defense lawyers taking part in the strike, however, the court was unable to begin examining the case.
The defendants include elected officials, civil servants, local authority officials, contractors, engineers and public letter writers. Among those facing prosecution are Ismaïl El Jay, president of the Zouagha district; his deputy Abdellah El Hadaf; the owners of the two buildings; municipal employees; and local authority officials.
They face allegations including corruption, unauthorized construction and violations of urban planning regulations. Some are also being prosecuted over alleged actions that investigators say contributed to the deaths and injuries caused by the collapse.
The case stems from the collapse of two residential buildings in the Al Moustakbal development in Fez’ Al Massira neighborhood in December. The disaster killed 22 people and injured another 16.
Judicial and technical investigations launched after the collapse uncovered multiple irregularities in the construction of the buildings.
Investigators found that additional floors had been built without the required permits. The inquiry also identified the use of reclaimed construction materials and irregularities involving the transfer of air rights.
Investigations further uncovered sales contracts drawn up outside the legal framework, as well as occupancy certificates issued without compliance with the required regulatory procedures.
Following the investigating judge’s inquiry, the case was referred to the King’s public prosecutor, who ordered that it be sent to the criminal chamber for trial.
Proceedings are now expected to begin on Sept. 7, when the court is due to examine the allegations against the 21 defendants and determine their individual criminal responsibility in one of Fez’ deadliest recent building collapses.
