Morocco's Election: Football, Ceuta, and the Future of a Nation

Introduction: A Nation at a Crossroads

As Morocco prepares for parliamentary elections, the political landscape is being reshaped by a new wave of voter sentiment—one that's heavily influenced by football heroes, economic desperation, and international tensions. In this environment, the very notion of politics feels disconnected to reality for many young Moroccans.

I have no hope for this election. I'm ashamed of our political scene. It's a complete circus,

The Youth Crisis: Disillusionment and Disengagement

Disillusioned youth are becoming more vocal as they navigate a country where opportunities remain scarce. According to recent data, overall unemployment stood at 13% last year, with youth unemployment reaching an alarming 37.3%. This stark contrast between campaign promises and reality has led many to question whether their votes truly matter.

One of the most striking examples of this disconnection was seen in the massive migration crisis that unfolded in late July. Over 60,000 individuals—Moroccans and others alike—risked their lives to cross into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, seeking a better life. This unprecedented wave of migration underscores just how desperate young people feel about the economic outlook at home.

Football as Politics: The Rise of Fouzi Lekjaa

In a remarkable turn, football has taken center stage in Moroccan politics. Fouzi Lekjaa, head of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and a senior politician working in the finance ministry, has emerged as a powerful political figure. His influence stems not only from his role in building Morocco's national football team but also from his ability to connect with younger voters through the lens of national pride.

During the 2022 World Cup run, when Morocco became the first Arab and African side to reach the semi-finals, Lekjaa's leadership was instrumental. Now, as he joins the centrist Party of Authenticity and Modernity (PAM), videos of his campaign rallies have gone viral across a football-mad nation jointly hosting the next World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

Lekjaa has promised to elevate Morocco's education and healthcare systems to match the global ranking of its football team. While this approach resonates with many, it also raises questions about whether political platforms can truly be built around sports achievements rather than substantive policy proposals.

The Israeli Connection: Political Divisions and Protests

Another major factor influencing the political narrative is Morocco's relationship with Israel. In December 2020, Morocco normalized ties with Israel under the US-brokered Abraham Accords—an agreement that sparked widespread outrage among pro-Palestinian activists.

The Islamist Justice and Development Party (PJD) is leveraging this sentiment to regain political ground. Led by former Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane, the party is campaigning heavily on ending diplomatic relations with Israel, calling it a mistake made by his party during their previous tenure in government.

Despite intense protests—some of which involved setting ablaze the Israeli flag—the two countries have recently agreed to reopen full embassies. This move signals a potential shift in diplomatic strategy but also adds complexity to an already charged political environment.

Gen Z Voices: Hope, Hype, and Political Participation

For many young Moroccans, the political process remains frustratingly inaccessible. Hamza El Kharroubi, a 29-year-old environmental activist who was briefly arrested during the 2025 Gen Z protests, represents a growing number of youth entering politics through alternative routes.

El Kharroubi is now running for parliament with the little-known Environment and Sustainable Development Party, which champions a green agenda. His campaign reflects a broader trend among younger voters who seek platforms that prioritize social justice, environmental concerns, and accountability over traditional political structures.

"As a young person, I don't have much hope," El Kharroubi tells us. "I joined this party because they wanted more Gen Z faces and they are allowing us to speak freely about our demands."

Structural Challenges: A Broken System?

Political experts like Rachid Aourraz from the Moroccan Institute for Policy Analysis (MIPA) argue that despite the rhetoric, real change is elusive. "The slogan 'one million jobs' has become an overused electoral slogan," he notes. "There is also talk of raising the minimum wage, but what is proposed cannot withstand a structural inability to create stable net jobs."

What's clear is that most major parties do not compete on alternative models, but rather on how to implement policies aligned with a royal vision. This creates a political system where change feels superficial, even when campaigns promise transformation.

Diaspora Engagement: Voices from Beyond the Borders

The impact of these political dynamics extends beyond Morocco's borders. Hiba, a 27-year-old Moroccan living in Montreal, represents a growing number of diaspora members who feel increasingly disconnected from their homeland's political processes.

"Gen Z protests didn't go in vain," she says. "We achieved something. At least now we see more debates with young people on state TV."

Though unable to vote directly due to the lack of proxies, many in the diaspora remain invested in Morocco's future. Their voices, often amplified through social media and international advocacy, serve as a reminder that political engagement transcends geography.

The Way Forward: Microscale Activism vs. Electoral Politics

Siham Azeroual, an environmental activist from the Atlas region, advocates for a more grassroots approach to change. "I think young people should focus on the microscale: rather than running for office, helping build communities and connecting with people and then building up to the top," she explains.

Her perspective highlights a fundamental tension in Moroccan society—the desire for systemic reform versus the need for immediate local action. While Azeroual may not be convinced by any single political campaign, she will still cast her ballot, recognizing that every vote is a small step toward a larger movement.

Conclusion: Elections as Reflections of Society

As Morocco heads into this election cycle, it's evident that the traditional narratives of politics are being disrupted. Football heroes, migration crises, and geopolitical issues like Israel-Palestine have all become embedded in the national conversation.

Whether these developments will lead to meaningful change remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: the youth of Morocco are no longer passive observers—they are active participants in shaping their country's destiny, even if it means navigating a system that often fails to reflect their aspirations.