In the wake of Morocco's recent parliamentary elections, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) has emerged as the dominant force, winning the highest number of seats. With a total of 97 out of 395 seats in the House of Representatives, PAM's victory comes at a pivotal moment as the nation gears up for its role in cohosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. However, despite its success, PAM fell significantly short of the 198 seats required to secure an outright majority, prompting the party to seek alliances with other political factions to form a governing coalition.
Founded in 2008 by Fouad Ali El Himma, a close associate of King Mohammed VI, PAM has historically been positioned as a counterbalance to the Justice and Development Party (PJD), which previously held power for a decade but saw its parliamentary representation diminish dramatically to just 13 seats in the last election. This time around, the PJD made a notable resurgence, increasing its seat count to 54, although given the historical rivalry between the two parties, a coalition seems improbable. The PJD has indicated its intention to remain in opposition, which leaves PAM likely to pursue a partnership with the monarchist Istiqlal party, which finished third, alongside other parties to create a governing majority.
The recent election saw a disappointing voter turnout of only 38 percent of the 15.8 million registered voters, marking the second-lowest participation rate since King Mohammed VI ascended to the throne in 1999. This decline in electoral engagement may be attributed to widespread public disillusionment, particularly following youth-led protests last year addressing issues such as employment, healthcare, and education, compounded by tragic incidents involving migrants attempting to reach Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta.
Looking ahead, potential candidates for the prime ministerial role from PAM include Fouzi Lekjaa, who is not only the head of Morocco's football federation but also serves as the budget minister, and Fatima Ezzahra Mansouri, the mayor of Marrakech and a prominent PAM member. If Mansouri is appointed, she would make history as the first woman to assume the position of prime minister in Morocco. The new government will be tasked with managing substantial investments and ensuring effective preparations for the World Cup, which is expected to bring significant economic opportunities to the country.
As reported by aljazeera.com.
