Morocco Investigates Irregularities in Temporary Worker Compensation Amidst Election Concerns

Moroccan administrative bodies are launching urgent investigations into alleged financial irregularities concerning temporary workers in local authorities across several regions, including Casablanca-Settat, Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, Marrakech-Safi, and Béni Mellal-Khénifra. These probes, directly ordered by the Ministry of Interior, stem from numerous complaints filed by opposition representatives in local councils.

The core of the allegations centers on the suspected misappropriation of temporary workers' compensation. Reports suggest that some council leaders and majority councilors may be deducting portions of these workers' pay in exchange for listing them as present, even when they are not actually working. This practice has led to significant confusion in payment processing, particularly the absence of proper disbursement records that should document payments and tasks performed.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, investigations have uncovered a more disturbing trend: the alleged inclusion of relatives and close associates of elected officials on the lists of temporary workers. Furthermore, some of these individuals have reportedly been assigned sensitive administrative tasks that fall under the purview of permanent civil servants. Authorities are particularly concerned about the potential for this access to sensitive personal data to be exploited for electoral gain, especially with legislative elections on the horizon. The lack of occupational accident insurance for these workers also remains a significant concern.