Outcry in Dakhla after fire at regional hospital leaves questions unanswered

Patients evacuated from Hassan II Regional Hospital in Dakhla due to a fire earlier this week were returned to the facility on Wednesday evening, following stabilization of the situation and the restoration of necessary health and safety conditions.

The incident, which triggered a large-scale emergency response from both local and health authorities, caused panic among patients, particularly in the maternity ward.

Multiple local sources reported the death of a newborn infant, though the regional health directorate has yet to issue an official statement confirming or denying the report.

In the absence of formal communication, speculation has swirled. Local media initially reported that El Khattat Yanja, President of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab Regional Council, had 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 in a comment to Hespress AR that the clinic had placed its resources entirely at the disposal of local authorities with the sole priority of saving lives, distancing itself from any political or personal credit.

Controversy also arose over the manner of 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 such a 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, in order to prevent similar incidents in vital health facilities that are expected to uphold the highest standards of care and security.