started · updated
Morocco elections 2026 see low turnout and political shifts
Morocco's September 23, 2026, legislative elections were characterized by a significant decline in civic engagement, with official voter turnout recorded at 38.2%. This represents a notable low for the country, exacerbated by a lack of participation from the youth; only 4% of citizens aged 18 to 24 registered to vote.
The parliamentary results saw a redistribution of power among major parties. The Justice and Development Party achieved a significant increase, rising from 13 seats in 2021 to 54 seats. Meanwhile, the four largest parties collectively secured 282 of the 395 available seats. The Socialist Union of Popular Forces obtained 26 seats, while the Party of Progress and Socialism saw a decrease to 19 seats. A leftist alliance consisting of the Unified Socialist Party and the Democratic Left Federation secured 8 seats.
Political analysts and organizations have raised concerns regarding the legitimacy and integrity of the process. Critics pointed to widespread voter disillusionment, economic frustrations, and allegations of electoral fraud, including the use of public resources and pre-marked ballots in certain regions. Observers noted a growing gap between the political establishment and a population facing high youth unemployment and widening economic inequality.
Entities
Ahmed Bouz · Authenticity and Modernity Party · Justice and Development Party · Mohammed VI · Morocco · National Coordination of the Renewed New Left Current · National Rally of Independents · Socialist Union of Popular Forces
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Justice and Development Party increased its parliamentary seats from 13 in 2021 to 54 in 2026. ar.hibapress.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The official voter turnout for the September 23, 2026, elections was 38.2%. laracheinfo.com · lemaroc360.com · www.newarab.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Only 4% of individuals aged 18 to 24 registered to vote. lemaroc360.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Political analysts suggest the election results indicate a significant disconnect between the political class and Moroccan society. al3omk.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Four major parties secured 282 of the 395 available parliamentary seats. laracheinfo.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A leftist alliance comprising the Unified Socialist Party and the Democratic Left Federation secured 8 seats. ar.hibapress.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Socialist Union of Popular Forces obtained 26 seats in the legislature. ar.hibapress.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Party of Progress and Socialism saw its seat count decrease from 22 to 19. ar.hibapress.com