Provisional Election Results Favor Authenticity and Modernity Party
In a significant political development, Morocco's Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) has emerged as the clear winner in the country's recent parliamentary elections, securing the highest number of seats according to provisional results released by the Interior Ministry. This election, characterized by rising discontent among the youth and pressing demands for improved public services, took place on September 24, 2026, and has set the stage for the formation of the next government.
PAM claimed victory with a total of 97 seats in the House of Representatives, Morocco's lower house, out of the 395 available. Following PAM was the National Assembly of Independents (RNI), which suffered substantial losses, capturing only 66 seats, while the Istiqlal Party secured 65 seats. Notably, the Justice and Development Party (PJD), a moderate Islamist party that had a disappointing performance in the previous election, rebounded remarkably to win 54 seats, marking a significant increase from its previous tally of just 13 seats.
Context and Implications of the Election Results
This election was the first since a wave of youth-led protests swept through Morocco nearly a year prior, highlighting the urgent need for job creation and better educational and healthcare services amidst a backdrop of high unemployment rates. The turnout for this election was notably low, recorded at just 38%, the lowest level since 2007, reflecting possible voter apathy or disillusionment with the existing political framework.
Founded in 2008 by Fouad Ali El Himma, a close confidant of King Mohammed VI, PAM has been positioned as a counterweight to the previously dominant PJD, which governed for a decade. The recent election results suggest a shift in the political landscape, as PAM, along with Istiqlal, had previously formed part of the parliamentary coalition supporting the outgoing RNI-led government. The new government will face immense pressure to address pressing socio-economic issues as Morocco gears up for significant international events, including co-hosting the 2030 World Cup.
As Morocco navigates this political transition, the king will appoint a new prime minister from the party with the most seats, likely leading to coalition negotiations. Given that no party is expected to achieve an absolute majority, political alliances will be crucial in determining the next government's structure. Potential candidates for the prime minister role include Faouzi Lakjaa, the president of Morocco’s soccer federation, and Fatima-Zahra Mansouri, the mayor of Marrakech, who could become the country's first female prime minister if selected.
As reported by abcnews.com.
