Morocco’s PAM wins election as coalition talks loom

Morocco's Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) has emerged victorious in parliamentary elections, securing the majority of seats in the House of Representatives. This win places PAM at the forefront of negotiations to form the next government as the nation grapples with issues such as youth unemployment and preparations for the 2030 World Cup.

According to preliminary results, PAM garnered 97 seats, while the National Rally of Independents (RNI) and the right-wing Istiqlal Party secured 66 and 65 seats, respectively. The election, the first since protests by Generation Z a year ago, highlighted concerns over job prospects and public services. Additionally, it follows the mass exodus of Moroccans into Spain's Ceuta enclave, causing concern within the European Union.

As per Morocco's constitution, King Mohammed VI will appoint the head of government from the party with the most seats. PAM's Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri, who would become the second woman to hold this position in the Arab region, is a potential candidate. Another potential prime minister candidate is PAM's Fouzi Lekjaa, who recently joined the party and is known for bolstering Morocco's national football team.

Relations between PAM and RNI have grown increasingly tense, with PAM leaders ruling out renewing their partnership with RNI, which could complicate coalition discussions. The Islamist Justice and Development Party (PJD), led by former Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane, made a strong comeback with 54 seats, up from 13 in 2021. However, the election saw low voter turnout, with 38% of eligible voters casting their ballots, down from 50% in 2021 and the lowest turn-out since 2007.

The next government will have to address the final stages of a $20 billion infrastructure project tied to Morocco's co-hosting of the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal, while addressing widespread political disengagement following the election.