Morocco: Center-right PAM leads in parliamentary election

Morocco's center-right Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) emerged as the leading party in the country's parliamentary election held on Wednesday, according to provisional results. The PAM, a part of the outgoing ruling coalition, secured 97 out of 395 seats in parliament, an increase of 10 seats compared to the 2021 election. Established in 2008 by a king's adviser, the PAM promotes social modernization and moderate secularist views, often seen as being close to the Moroccan monarchy.

The PAM's victory in the election does not indicate a significant shift in power dynamics within the North African kingdom. Morocco's King Mohammed VI maintains significant influence in policy decisions and foreign affairs, owing to the country's semi-constitutional monarchy status. The National Rally of Independents (RNI), once a senior partner in the coalition government, experienced a decline from 102 to 66 seats, placing it in second position. The right-wing Istiqlal party also saw a reduction, with only 65 seats, 16 fewer than in 2021.

The moderate Islamist opposition Justice and Development Party experienced a significant surge, gaining 54 seats compared to just 13 in the 2021 election. Low voter turnout, marked at 38%, marked the election results. This was the lowest turnout since 2007. Factors contributing to the low turnout include a lack of faith in politicians and concerns over living conditions.

Only around 4% of registered voters were aged 18 to 24. In 2025, protests led by the Gen Z generation shook Morocco, the largest since the Arab Spring in the early 2010s. These protests were primarily driven by mistrust in politicians and dissatisfaction with issues such as healthcare, education, and purchasing power.