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Rabat – Agadir has seen growing anger and protests after a series of deaths at the regional Hassan II Hospital. Local residents say at least 10 women have died in the maternity ward in a short period, sparking outrage over poor health services and a lack of medical staff.
The most recent case involved a pregnant woman who passed away shortly after giving birth and left behind a grieving family and a newborn without a mother. Her death was not the first. Several other women lost their lives at the same hospital under similar circumstances. This has led many to question the quality of care at the regional establishment.
Last week, locals gathered outside the hospital to protest what they described as “serious medical negligence.” They demanded urgent action, a transparent investigation, and accountability for the deaths.
Different social media accounts have circulated about the reasons behind the tragedies. Some speak of complications after cesarean deliveries that were not handled quickly or properly. Others insist that hospital officials must be held responsible for any negligence. For many families, trust in the hospital has been badly shaken.
The issue has now reached parliament. MP Khalid Chanaq, from the Istiqlal Party, submitted a written question to Health Minister Amine Tahraoui, raising concerns about the alarming situation at Hassan II Hospital. He pointed to lack of medical equipment, overcrowding, and long waiting times across various departments, particularly the emergency unit.
Six mothers lost in one week
“The situation became even more alarming after media reports about six consecutive deaths of young women in the maternity ward within the span of just one week, following caesarean operations carried out under circumstances that raise many questions about medical safety standards,” the MP wrote.
In response to the public outrage, the regional health authority of Souss-Massa issued a statement addressing recent criticism. It denied claims that patients were abandoned in the emergency ward, saying that videos and photos shared online were “deliberately staged to mislead public opinion.”
The authority explained that the images showed victims of a road accident who were being treated according to medical protocols, and that staff respected patients’ dignity and rights.
The statement added that an internal investigation was carried out, including testimony from health workers, patients’ families, and a review of CCTV footage. Officials concluded that medical teams acted professionally despite heavy pressure and high demand for services that day.
Read also: Despite Progress, Maternal and Infant Mortality Rates Remain High in Morocco
In his written question, Chanaq said that despite the Regional Health Directorate’s statement to clarify circulated images, “the absence of a comprehensive and transparent communication approach from the Ministry has only fueled greater doubts and frustration among the public in the region.”
He called for a full investigation, clear answers, and immediate steps to protect the lives of pregnant women. He also urged the government to launch a full rehabilitation program for the hospital, noting its role as a key regional health facility that should meet the needs of the Souss-Massa population.
And for many residents of Agadir, official reassurances have not been enough. Families of victims, activists, and citizens continue to demand transparency and urgent reforms to prevent more tragedies in the maternity ward of Hassan II Hospital.
A recent report from the World Bank acknowledged Morocco’s efforts to address high maternal and infant mortality rates, but said this remains a challenge in the country, particularly in rural areas.
