Morocco's Legislative Elections: A Generation Left Behind
On September 23, 2026, Morocco will hold parliamentary elections aimed at renewing its legislature. However, a significant concern arises from the profound disconnection between the political system and the younger generation. Less than 10% of Moroccan youth are currently registered to vote, a stark indication of their disengagement from the political process. The recent uprising led by the movement known as Gen Z 212, which emerged in response to pressing social issues, seems to have fallen on deaf ears, overshadowed by the upcoming elections.
Just under a year ago, thousands of young Moroccans took to the streets of Casablanca, driven by a desire for change. Utilizing the social media platform Discord to organize their protests, they demanded an increase in educational and healthcare resources rather than the more glamorous hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup—a major event Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal. The movement's calls for the resignation of Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, who has led the government since the 2021 elections, echoed through the streets but have largely been ignored in the current political climate.
As the election date approaches, the question remains: Will young Moroccans finally take action and participate in the electoral process? Unfortunately, current statistics suggest otherwise, revealing that only about 4% of registered voters are under the age of 24. This low turnout is indicative of a broader trend in which young people feel disillusioned and powerless within a political framework that appears unresponsive to their needs and aspirations.
The upcoming elections will also see a focus on the potential resurgence of the Islamist party PJD, while other major parties, including Akhannouch's RNI, have become increasingly depoliticized. With the youth's demands relegated to the background, the political landscape of Morocco risks becoming more stagnant, failing to address the vital issues that resonate with its youngest citizens.
As reported by lopinion.fr.
