Moroccans Head to Polls for Parliamentary Election

Nearly 16 million voters head to the polls across Morocco on Wednesday to elect 395 members of the House of Representatives.

Widespread economic concerns, including rising living costs, high unemployment, persistent inequality, and deep-seated political distrust, dominate the election campaign.

With polling stations open from 08:00 am to 07:00 pm, turnout among young voters represents a major test for the country’s political leadership, as citizens aged 18 to 24 account for just four per cent of registered voters.

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The governing National Rally of Independents (RNI) enters the race as a frontrunner alongside its coalition partner, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM).

Moroccans head to polls for parliamentary election (News Central TV) — A view of the parliament building in Rabat, Morocco, September 16, 2026. Picture taken with a mobile phone. Credit: REUTERS/Ahmed Eljechtimi

Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch has defended his administration’s social security expansions and wage increases while navigating public criticism over potential business conflicts of interest.

Under Morocco’s constitution, King Mohammed VI will appoint the prime minister from the party winning the most parliamentary seats to form a new five-year government, though the monarch retains final authority over core national policy decisions.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.