Morocco reports lower turnout in parliamentary elections

Morocco's interior ministry announced a decline in parliamentary election turnout, with 38.02% of eligible voters casting ballots in the country's recent election, down from 50% in the 2021 vote. The decrease in participation, from 27 million voters who are registered to 15.8 million, may signal a drop in public engagement and trust in elected institutions.

The election, which took place under normal conditions with only a few isolated instances, is not anticipated to significantly alter the balance of power in Morocco, where the king holds significant control over policy-making. The newly elected parliament will have to implement initiatives aimed at addressing the youth's discontent, following mass protests in 2022.

The current ruling coalition, comprising three parties, has pledged to create one million jobs and improve various aspects of public services, but disagreements within the coalition have led to criticism over rising food prices and other policy issues. The 2030 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, is a key priority for the government, with investments estimated at $20 billion.