Heatwaves expose flaws in Moroccan public sector deals

Moroccan local authorities are scrutinizing deals for office equipment and supplies following a surge of complaints from employees struggling with inadequate working conditions, particularly the lack of air conditioning amid soaring summer temperatures. Investigations have begun in regions like Casablanca-Settat and Rabat-Salé-Kénitra.

Territorial administrations are sending inquiries to local council leaders regarding the fate of funds allocated for equipping administrative offices and improving work environments. These actions are based on grievances submitted by staff who report insufficient equipment and a lack of essential tools, including air conditioning, despite the extreme heat. Employees, especially in departments with high public interaction like human resources and civil status offices, have highlighted the persistent absence of basic safety and comfort measures.

Sources indicate that the regional authorities have moved beyond simple inquiries, now demanding written explanations backed by documentation from council leaders. These explanations must detail the dates of equipment deals, the amounts allocated, the beneficiaries within the councils, and include copies of provisional and final acceptance reports for acquired equipment. The aim is to compare contractual obligations with the actual state of offices and administrative services.

This scrutiny comes as some employees have resorted to personal measures, like buying their own fans or leaving doors and windows open, to cope with the heat. Growing discontent is fueled by the recurring nature of this problem, which remains unresolved despite being a financial commitment for local councils. The situation has also sparked anger over the continued procurement of equipment for senior officials' offices and service vehicles, while basic employee working conditions remain neglected, especially in areas prone to heatwaves. This disparity has raised questions about priority setting and fund management within some local authorities, prompting a review of spending and oversight mechanisms.