Candidates Announced for Upcoming Legislative Elections
On Saturday, the Progress and Socialism Party officially announced its list of candidates for the upcoming legislative elections scheduled for September 23, 2026. This announcement was made during the eighth session of the party's central committee, revealing a lineup that primarily features familiar political figures who have previously been the party's mainstay in securing parliamentary seats. Notably, the list has drawn criticism for its lack of inclusivity, as it includes only six women and eight candidates under the age of 35, raising concerns about the party's commitment to engaging women and youth in the political process.
Among the candidates, Raho Helia makes a notable return to the party after previously running under the banner of the Authenticity and Modernity Party in the last elections, having secured his nomination in the Tiflet-Romani district. Additionally, former leader of the Socialist Union, Abdelhadi Kherat, has joined the party, receiving endorsement to run in Settat. In the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, the party has nominated several candidates including Dahman Mazriahi in the Tangier-Assilah district, Idriss Lazaar in the Mdiq-Fnideq district, and Zohair Rokani in the Tetouan district, among others.
In the eastern region, the list includes Wafa Tajji in the Oujda-Ankade district, Mohamed Belkassem in the Nador district, and Adnan Ouchan in the Driouch district, along with several other candidates across various districts. The Fes-Meknes region has nominated Ali Lakassab as the lead candidate in Fes-South, with additional candidates in Meknes, Ifrane, and other districts.
Furthermore, the Rabat-Salé-Kenitra region features candidates such as Rachid Sassi in the Rabat-Mohit district and Nour El-Din Harraq in Kenitra. The party has also renewed confidence in candidates across other regions, including Benel-Mellal-Khenifra, Casablanca-Settat, Marrakech-Safi, Drâa-Tafilalet, Souss-Massa, and Guelmim-Oued Noun, showcasing a diverse array of candidates aimed at representing various constituencies.
The party's strategy appears focused on leveraging established political figures while facing criticism for not embracing a broader representation of women and younger candidates, a concern that may influence public perception ahead of the elections.
As reported by le12.ma.
