The municipal council of Tangier, Morocco, has decided to allocate a budget of 80 million centimes for the maintenance of Islamic cemeteries in the city. This decision was made during the second programming of the municipality's revenue for the 2026 financial year. The allocation will be presented to council members during the October ordinary session for discussion and approval.
The council members are expected to discuss the details of the allocated budget, including how it will be spent, the quality of work, and the implementation of the projects. They will also review the accumulated complaints regarding the spread of waste and secondary vegetation within the cemeteries, which hinders visits to the cemeteries and contradicts the sanctity of Islamic cemeteries.
The opposition in the municipal council had previously demanded the maintenance of all Islamic cemeteries and the implementation of urgent works to prevent soil erosion, which affects several graves located at the top of a mountain, such as those in the Koraa Sebaa neighborhood. They also requested consideration of the region's climate, topography, and heavy rainfall during the winter season.
Protesters had called on the municipal council to continuously address their complaints regarding the lack of cleanliness in the cemeteries, ensuring prompt and efficient responses. They also demanded improved public services, including cleaning and removal of weeds, opening pathways between graves, spraying pesticides, and disposing of waste and debris.
Verbal complaints about the cleanliness of cemeteries had been pouring into the municipal services of Tangier, prompting the council to coordinate with local authorities and services to launch a large-scale cleaning campaign. The goal was to ensure cleanliness and prevent the disposal of construction waste and garbage in the area.
The municipal council's decision to allocate a budget for cemetery maintenance reflects the growing concerns about the state of Islamic cemeteries in Tangier. Residents and council members alike have expressed concerns about the dignity and respect owed to the deceased and their families.
The implementation of the maintenance projects is expected to improve the overall condition of the cemeteries and provide a more dignified environment for visitors. The municipal council's efforts to address the complaints and concerns of residents are seen as a positive step towards improving public services and promoting respect for Islamic traditions.
Key points
- The municipal council of Tangier allocates $80 million for maintenance of Islamic cemeteries.
- The decision aims to address complaints about cleanliness and maintenance of cemeteries.
- The project is expected to improve the overall condition of the cemeteries and provide a more dignified environment for visitors.
