Moroccans went to the polls on Wednesday to elect a new parliament in an election shaped by mounting issues but also hopes for better opportunities generated by the country’s thriving economy. The next government will oversee preparations for the 2030 World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal, while facing pressure to address everyday worries about unemployment and low wages, as well as issues with housing, schools and hospitals. Voting centres across the North African kingdom are due to close at 7 pm local time (9 pm CEST), allowing nearly 16 million registered voters to cast ballots for the 395-seat House of Representatives.
A total of 7,288 candidates are standing, backed by 28 parties and alliances or running on two independent lists. The vote will determine the next prime minister and the makeup of the government, which will serve alongside a powerful monarchy that retains broad authority over strategic affairs. Morocco’s constitution requires the king to choose the prime minister from the top-performing party in legislative elections.
Since no single party is expected to capture an absolute majority, the winner will need to build a coalition government. Portfolios are split among the political allies, but the palace traditionally keeps key posts such as defence and foreign affairs under royal control. Morocco’s economy is growing and attracting foreign investment, and new industries are developing.
It has also become Africa’s most-visited destination. The kingdom is a close US ally and maintains strong ties with Western capitals. It is among the few Arab countries that have diplomatic relations with Israel.
Beyond the palaces, seas and mountains that draw tourists from around the world, development remains uneven across the country, economic growth is not creating enough jobs, and 12.7% of Moroccans live in relative poverty. Politicians have said they have heard these grievances and have proposed solutions in their election manifestos. Many young Moroccans in particular said they have heard such promises before.
The outgoing government is a coalition of the National Rally of Independents (RNI), the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) and the Istiqlal Party. All three are competing to finish first. The liberal, pro-business RNI won the 2021 election and has led the government for the past five years.
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