Full Breakdown
PAM Leads Morocco’s Parliament as Voters Turn Out in Record Low
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Election Results: PAM Secures the Most Seats
Provisional results released on September 24 show the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) winning 97 of the 395 seats in the House of Representatives. The National Rally of Independents (RNI) obtained 66 seats, Istiqlal 65, and the Justice and Development Party (PJD) 54. Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit announced the figures after the September 23 election.
Background & Context
The 2026 legislative election follows a turbulent period marked by migration attempts at Ceuta, Gen-Z-led protests over health, education and purchasing power, and a nationwide “border rush.” Morocco is preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal, a project criticized for its cost amid socioeconomic challenges. PAM, founded in 2008 by Fouad Ali El Himma, positions itself as a secular counterweight to the Islamist PJD.
Data & Statistics
- Seats: PAM 97, RNI 66, Istiqlal 65, PJD 54 (others hold the remainder).
- Turnout: 38 % of registered voters, the lowest since 2007 (officially 38.02 %).
- Registered Voters: About 15.8 million, down ~12 % from the previous election.
- Youth Participation: Voters aged 18-24 represent ~4 % of the electorate; those over 60 comprise ~30 %.
- Economic Commitments: PAM’s platform totals $37 billion, promising one million new jobs, higher wages and expanded health-care spending. The IMF estimates World Cup infrastructure spending at roughly 190 billion dirhams (? $20 billion), about 12 % of 2024 GDP.
Official Statements & Responses
Interior Minister Laftit confirmed the seat distribution and turnout figure. The king retains the constitutional authority to appoint the prime minister from the party that wins the most seats; PAM leader Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri is a potential candidate.
Criticism & Opposition
Youth disillusionment remains pronounced. A 59-year-old voter, Majda Bakatir, said she has lost faith in the political class, and many young Moroccans view parliament as symbolic given the monarchy’s control over defence, foreign affairs and major economic decisions. Analysts note youth unemployment ranges from 25 % to 37 % versus a national rate of 13 %, fueling skepticism about the promised jobs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'm not going to vote because I have lost all faith in the political class,” — Majda Bakatir
What’s Next
King Mohammed VI is expected to appoint a prime minister from PAM, after which the party must negotiate a coalition to reach the 198-seat majority. PAM leaders have ruled out a renewed partnership with the RNI, suggesting talks will focus on smaller allies such as Istiqlal and left-wing groups. The new government will inherit responsibility for World Cup preparations and implementing the $37 billion economic platform amid public pressure for tangible improvements in employment, wages and public services.