In Morocco, approximately 26.7 million individuals were eligible to vote in the parliamentary elections held on Wednesday. However, only 22% of these eligible voters actively participated in the electoral process. Official reports indicate that the voter turnout was recorded at a mere 38%, but this figure pertains only to the approximately 15.8 million registered voters who had pre-registered for the election. This low engagement showcases a significant apathy among the populace towards the electoral system.
The results of the election saw the monarchist party, PAM, securing the majority of seats in the 395-seat parliament located in Rabat, winning a total of 97 seats. They were followed closely by the center-right parties, RNI and Istiqlal, which obtained 66 and 65 seats, respectively. Interestingly, the moderate Islamist party, PJD, which faced a substantial defeat in 2021, managed to make a comeback, winning 54 seats in the latest election.
It is particularly concerning that the youth and young adults in Morocco are increasingly disillusioned with politics, exhibiting a pronounced distrust towards political parties and public institutions. Unemployment rates among the 15 to 24 age group are alarmingly high, standing at 37%. Many young Moroccans are reportedly contemplating emigration as a viable option for their future, reflecting their dissatisfaction with the current socio-political landscape.
As Morocco prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup in 2030 alongside Spain and Portugal, there is a push to accelerate the construction of stadiums and related infrastructure. This initiative has sparked protests among thousands, predominantly young individuals, who argue that such expenditures are unjustifiable, especially when they perceive necessary improvements in the education and healthcare sectors as being neglected.
Moreover, there is a prevailing sentiment that voting in Morocco is futile, given that the monarchy holds the ultimate power, overshadowing the electoral process.
As reported by nachrichten.at.
