Outcry in Dakhla after fire at regional hospital leaves questions unanswered

Fire at Dakhla Hospital Sparks Panic, Raises Concerns Over Safety

Patients Return After Evacuation Amidst Uncertainty About Cause and Casualties

Following a fire earlier this week, patients evacuated from Hassan II Regional Hospital in Dakhla returned to the facility on Wednesday evening. The situation has stabilized, and necessary health and safety conditions have been restored.

The incident triggered a large-scale emergency response from both local and health authorities, causing panic among patients, particularly in the maternity ward. While multiple local sources report the death of a newborn infant, the regional health directorate has not yet issued an official statement confirming or denying this information. Speculation continues to swirl, fueled by unconfirmed reports and conflicting statements.

Initial media reports suggested that El Khattat Yanja, President of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab Regional Council, covered the medical expenses of patients and newborns evacuated to a private international clinic. However, a spokesperson for the clinic strongly denied these claims, stating they placed their resources solely at the disposal of local authorities with the priority of saving lives. They distanced themselves from any political or personal credit.

Controversy also arose over the regional president’s visit to the hospital. Video livestreams and social media content broadcast from sensitive areas such as the intensive care and maternity units drew criticism for violating patient privacy and disregarding medical protocols.

Many observers condemned the presence of online influencers during this critical situation, viewing it as a display of political opportunism.

Despite the gravity of the incident, which has garnered widespread attention in southern Morocco, no official statement has been issued by the governorate or regional health authorities regarding the cause of the fire, the extent of infrastructure damage, or confirmed human casualties.

The absence of a formal inquiry or administrative investigation has prompted growing public calls for transparency and accountability.

Local civil society voices are urging authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the fire and identify any lapses in safety procedures, aiming to prevent similar incidents in vital health facilities expected to uphold the highest standards of care and security.