Socialist Union of Popular Forces faces challenges ahead of Moroccan elections

The Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP) faces significant internal and external challenges ahead of Morocco’s legislative elections scheduled for September 23, 2026. The party is currently navigating a period of instability marked by a wave of resignations and departures of prominent members and leftist leaders. This exodus has seen influential figures move toward other political entities, such as the Left Alliance or the Party of Progress and Socialism.

One notable departure is that of historic leader Abdelhadi Kharat, who joined the Party of Progress and Socialism following a breakdown in his relationship with USFP first secretary Idriss Lachgar. While the USFP has presented its candidate list as a sign of renewal, the loss of experienced activists and organizers has raised questions about its ability to maintain its historical position in the Moroccan leftist landscape.

In response to the political climate, the USFP has launched a campaign in Marrakech urging citizens to practice ‘punitive voting’ to demand greater accountability from public officials. The party’s platform focuses on social justice, equitable development, and empowering voters to use the ballot box as a mechanism for political change and government oversight.