The Marrakech 2026 elections have entered a new phase as candidates continue to submit their nomination papers for the upcoming parliamentary elections. As the competition begins to take shape across various districts within the Marrakech region, several prominent candidates have swiftly filed their applications with the regional authority.
This election race is anticipated to be marked by fierce competition among well-known political and economic figures, drawing significant attention to districts where power dynamics are closely contested. Notably, the city districts of Sidi Youssef Ben Ali and Tessaoult, as well as the Gueliz district, are under particular scrutiny as they are expected to showcase a tight contest.
The ‘Death District’ Sparks Intense Competition in Marrakech
The Sidi Youssef Ben Ali and Tessaoult district has returned to the forefront of electoral interest, previously dubbed the “Death District” due to the strength of the candidates vying for influence within it. In a significant move, Fatima Zahra Mansouri has officially announced her candidacy. As the Minister of National Planning, Urban Development, Housing, and City Policy, and the collective coordinator for the Authenticity and Modernity Party, Mansouri is now in the fray following her formal application submission.
Her candidacy is met with stiff competition from a host of contenders, each eager to secure a seat in this pivotal electoral district. Among the notable challengers is Abdelaziz Deriyouch, a member of parliament and leader of the Istiqlal Party, who is recognized for his strong electoral presence, particularly in the Tessaoult community. Additionally, tourism operator Lahcen Zilmatt is entering the race under the flag of the Socialist Union of Popular Forces, banking on his local influence to contest for a parliamentary seat.
Also in the running is Said El Krach, a candidate representing the National Rally of Independents, joining a competitive mix of candidates who are expected to shape the electoral landscape significantly.
Lawyers and Business Figures in the Gueliz District Race
Meanwhile, the Gueliz district is witnessing a diverse array of candidates from various professional sectors. The competition is poised to be particularly intense between Suleiman El Omrani, a candidate from the Popular Movement party and the current President of the Marrakech Bar Association, and Mohamed Sabari, a lawyer and prominent figure of the Authenticity and Modernity Party, who currently serves as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
The Istiqlal Party is also making its mark in this district through businessman Anas El Hawaji, who is positioned to leverage his local standing in the electoral race. Additionally, Faisal El Dardari from the National Rally of Independents and Naji El Khalidi from the Constitutional Union party are among the candidates showcasing the multifaceted nature of this electoral contest, which blends political, professional, and economic influences.
In the Manara district, the competition is heating up as seasoned parliamentarians with substantial institutional experience prepare to face off. Leading the list is Abdelwahid Shafqi from the National Rally of Independents, alongside Tarek Hanich, a prominent figure from the Authenticity and Modernity Party, who is bolstered by his political and electoral presence.
Abdelrazak Ahloosh from the Istiqlal Party is also participating in this race, drawing on his experience in managing public affairs. Former parliamentarian Mohamed Tofla from the Justice and Development Party is keen to reclaim his seat in the upcoming term. With such a diverse array of candidates boasting various political experiences, the Manara district is set to become a hotbed of electoral rivalry.
As the nomination period continues, which will last until noon on September 9, the final landscape of competitors is expected to crystallize. Initial data suggests that the nine seats allocated for the Marrakech region will witness a robust electoral contest among candidates presented by their respective parties across various electoral districts. Ultimately, the decisive outcome will hinge on voter preferences during the election day, following the completion of the electoral process.
As reported by ihata.ma.
