Vote Elections 2026

Abdel Hafid Idrissi Bouzidi Takes the Helm for the Independence Party

In a significant development, the Independence Party has officially appointed Abdel Hafid Idrissi Bouzidi as its candidate for the upcoming legislative elections in the Tissa-Taounate district. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the party as it seeks to strengthen its political presence in an area recognized for its electoral significance within the Taounate region. The choice of Bouzidi, who currently serves as the deputy head of the Taounate municipal council, comes after a series of rapid developments surrounding the party's candidate selection process in recent weeks.

The Independence Party had previously faced challenges in finalizing its list, with initial candidates such as Mohamed Soufan, the head of the rural municipality of Zariz, stepping back from the race. Subsequent candidate Tarik Lachkar, a member of the Fes-Meknes regional council, was also unable to run due to his name being removed from the electoral rolls in Tissa, according to an informed party source. Bouzidi's nomination brings closure to the party's search for a candidate to lead the "scale" list in Tissa-Taounate, allowing the party to focus on preparing for the electoral campaign and engaging with voters.

Bouzidi is well-known in the local political landscape, having been elected in 2021 as the deputy to the municipal council of Taounate, representing the Independence Party during the tenure that followed the September 8, 2021 elections. The party is banking on this selection to present a competitive list that can reclaim a strong foothold in Tissa-Taounate, especially as various political parties ramp up their campaigns leading to the legislative elections.

The Tissa-Taounate district holds a unique political weight in the electoral map of the Taounate region, characterized by a multitude of competing forces. Bouzidi's candidacy is thus expected to undergo a true electoral test, particularly given the anticipated competition from several other candidates and parties. The Independence Party enters this new phase with a candidate whose selection has finally been confirmed, and the upcoming campaign will reveal whether Abdel Hafid Idrissi Bouzidi can transform this endorsement into electoral success, solidifying the party's position in Tissa-Taounate.

In a recent statement, Tarik Lachkar expressed his disappointment at being unable to run, attributing it to his electoral registration issues after relocating from Tissa to Fes without being registered in the new electoral rolls. He emphasized, however, that while an individual might be barred from participating in the elections, their commitment to serving the community remains unchanged. Lachkar extended his heartfelt gratitude to the residents of Tissa-Taounate for their support and urged them to back Bouzidi, whom he praised for his dedication and commitment to addressing community issues and serving the public good.

"The battle is not one of individuals but rather one for the dignity of citizens, the development of the region, and the voice of its people," Lachkar stated, encouraging unity and collective effort among supporters to endorse the candidate deemed capable of upholding their interests. He concluded with a call for solidarity, underscoring that while circumstances may change, their commitment to serving the nation and its residents does not.

As reported by taounate.net.