Moroccans went to the polls on Wednesday to elect members of the 395-seat House of Representatives, with the outcome set to determine the country’s next prime minister and shape coalition negotiations. The election comes amid growing concern among young people over unemployment, living costs and access to quality schools, healthcare and housing.
The next government will also oversee major investment linked to Morocco’s preparations to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Billions of dollars are expected to be spent on infrastructure and related projects, placing additional focus on how public funds are managed while addressing everyday economic concerns.
Nearly 16 million registered voters were eligible to participate, with 7,288 candidates from 27 political parties contesting the election. Under Morocco’s Constitution, the king appoints the head of government from the party that wins the most seats.
With no party expected to secure an outright majority, coalition-building is likely to be central to forming the next government. The election is also being closely watched because of declining voter registration and concerns over participation among younger citizens.
Several groups have called for a boycott, questioning the democratic conditions of the vote. The election follows youth-led protests and comes amid wider frustration over employment opportunities and living standards. The number of registered voters has fallen 9.7 per cent since 2021 despite population growth, adding to expectations of low turnout.
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