Strategic Political Shift in Taounate

On September 2, 2026, the Political Bureau of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) announced a significant political shift in the Fez-Meknes region by welcoming former minister and prominent National Rally of Independents (RNI) leader, Mohammed Abou, into its ranks. This strategic move comes just weeks ahead of the legislative elections scheduled for September 23, aiming to reshape the political landscape in Taounate, a region historically dominated by the RNI.

The official announcement of Mohammed Abou's transition occurred during a political gathering at his residence in Fez, attended by Fawzi Lekjaa, a member of PAM's Political Bureau, alongside other prominent party figures. This event marked not only a personal milestone for Abou but also a critical moment for PAM as it seeks to consolidate power and influence in the region.

Abou's Political Legacy and Future Prospects

Mohammed Abou brings with him a wealth of experience in legislative and executive roles, having served as a member of the House of Representatives for the Taounate constituency since the 1997 elections. He led the RNI parliamentary group from 2002 to 2007 and held the position of Vice President of the lower house for several years. Abou's tenure also includes significant governmental roles, such as Minister Delegate to the Prime Minister for Public Sector Modernization in 2007 and Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade in 2013. His extensive experience in local governance, particularly as President of the Ben Walid Rural Municipality, and his academic contributions as a researcher at the Faculty of Science and Technology in Fez, further bolster his profile.

This recent alignment with PAM is part of a broader strategy to expand its influence in Taounate. The party has previously attracted local parliamentary figures such as Nourredine Qachbil from the Al-Qaria-Ghafsai district and Bouchta Boucif from the Taounate-Tissa district in August, signaling a concerted effort to redefine electoral alliances in anticipation of the upcoming elections.

As reported by ar.le360.ma.