Morocco's Elections: A New Chapter in Political Fragmentation

Setting the Stage for Change

When I first stepped into the polling stations of Morocco's capital city, Rabat, on election day, it was clear that something profound was at play. The air was thick with anticipation and uncertainty. What I saw in those early hours of September 24th would echo across the nation: a political landscape reshaped by deepening divisions and shifting alliances.

"The turnout is disturbingly low," said Dr. Hassan El Amrani, a political analyst at the Institute for Middle Eastern Studies. "We're not just witnessing voter disengagement; we're seeing a generational shift in how Moroccans relate to politics."

The results confirmed what many suspected: Morocco's 2026 parliamentary elections brought about a significant realignment of power, one that will redefine governance for years to come. With only 38.08% of registered voters casting ballots—a figure lower than any election since 1999—this was not merely an electoral contest; it was a reflection of national soul-searching.

The Rise of PAM: A New Political Force

Among the major winners, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) stood out. Its rise from 87 seats in 2021 to 97 in 2026 is nothing short of remarkable. As Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri, a senior member of PAM's collective leadership, celebrated with her colleagues in the early hours after results were announced, she represented more than just a party victory—she embodied a new political narrative.

The party's growth signals a shift away from traditional power structures. Where RNI once held the reins, now PAM sits at the top of the provisional seat count. Yet, the question remains: can they govern alone? The answer lies not in raw numbers but in forming strategic coalitions with either RNI or Istiqlal—two parties that remain close behind them in terms of parliamentary strength.

Fragmentation and Coalition Dynamics

The political fallout from this new arrangement is complex. Despite having governed together for five years, PAM and RNI found themselves locked in ideological battle during the campaign. Accusations flew about recruitment tactics and betrayal—a reminder that even within alliances, trust can be fragile.

Senior figures like Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri have been clear: should RNI take the lead, she personally would not want to join another government led by them. Such candid admissions reflect the tension beneath the surface of Morocco's political discourse—tensions that will undoubtedly shape the upcoming coalition negotiations.

The possibility of renewing the RNI-PAM-Istiqlal trio is present, but it won't come without careful deliberation. The very foundations upon which these parties have built their governance are now under scrutiny, forcing leaders to weigh loyalty against pragmatism.

PJD's Comeback: A Surprising Turn

Perhaps the most unexpected development was the return of the Justice and Development Party (PJD). Once reduced to just 13 seats after its crushing loss in 2021, the party now holds 54—marking a stunning resurgence.

This comeback is particularly significant given the long-standing rivalry between PJD and PAM. For years, PJD leaders have accused PAM of being created primarily to contain their influence. The departure of key figures like Fouzi Lekjaa—from PJD to PAM—has only intensified those sentiments.

Yet, despite this political rivalry, Lekjaa's role within PAM has opened up new possibilities for cross-party collaboration. As a former minister and head of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, his presence adds weight to discussions about future government roles. His movement into party politics highlights how deeply intertwined public service and electoral ambition have become in modern Morocco.

Turning Out: What the Numbers Reveal

The low turnout of just 38% has sparked widespread concern across political circles. In comparison, 2021 saw over half the electorate participate—another indicator of growing alienation among citizens.

Regional disparities paint a nuanced picture. While some areas like Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra achieved participation rates above 77%, others lagged far behind. These differences suggest that economic conditions, local governance quality, and regional identities may be influencing voter behavior in distinct ways.

As I reflect on the broader implications of these elections, one thing becomes clear: Morocco's political future is no longer simply about which party holds power, but how it can rebuild trust with a population increasingly skeptical of traditional institutions. The next government will have to prove itself not only through policy but also through engagement.

Looking Forward

The path ahead for Morocco's leaders is fraught with challenges. Beyond forming coalitions, the real task lies in addressing the root causes behind the electorate's disillusionment. If past trends are any indication, sustained dialogue between parties and civil society will be crucial to restoring faith in democratic processes.

For now, PAM has taken center stage. But whether it can truly lead Morocco forward depends not only on its ability to govern effectively but also on its willingness to listen—truly listen—to the concerns of all citizens, especially those who chose not to vote at all.