PAM Wins Moroccan Legislative Elections Amid Historic Voter Apathy

• The Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) won the Moroccan legislative elections with 97 of the 395 seats, though the final turnout reached a record low of 38.02%.
• The low participation signals a deep disconnect between citizens and the traditional party system, particularly among the youth.

Election Results and Coalition Dynamics

• The National Rally of Independents (RNI) secured 66 seats, followed by the Istiqlal party with 65.
• The Justice and Development Party (PJD), which governed from 2011 to 2021, returned to Parliament with 54 seats.
• No single party reached the 198-seat majority threshold, requiring the formation of a coalition. The three major parties (PAM, RNI, and Istiqlal) collectively hold 228 seats.

Political Disconnect

• Turnout dropped significantly from 50.18% in 2021 to 38.02%. Critics argue the government failed to address public distrust, especially among younger demographics.
• Analysts note that Moroccan political parties often lack grassroots democratic structures, relying instead on local notables and family networks.
• Afrobarometer data shows that only about a third of citizens aged 18–35 trust the main political actors, though many remain active in non-partisan political engagement like social media protests.

Economic and Structural Challenges

• Power remains concentrated with the monarchy, which holds authority over defense, foreign policy, and major economic decisions, leaving political parties to compete for administrative roles.
• The next government faces urgent demands to reduce the cost of living, tackle unemployment, and address regional inequalities.
• While Morocco is investing billions in infrastructure for the 2030 World Cup, citizens continue to prioritize improvements in public health, education, and social services.
• The challenge for the incoming administration lies in bridging the gap between rapidly evolving societal needs and stagnant political structures.