**PAM Wins Most Seats in Morocco's Parliamentary Elections but Lacks Majority**
Morocco's Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) has emerged as the leading party in the recent parliamentary elections, securing 97 out of 395 seats in the House of Representatives, according to final results released by the Ministry of Interior. Despite this significant victory, PAM fell short of the 198 seats required for an outright majority, necessitating the formation of a coalition government.
The elections, held on September 24, 2026, marked a critical moment in Moroccan politics, as PAM, which is closely aligned with the monarchy, seeks to establish its influence in the legislative body. Founded in 2008 by Fouad Ali El Himma, a close associate of King Mohammed VI, PAM has been positioned as a counterbalance to the Justice and Development Party (PJD), which previously led the government for a decade.
In a surprising turn of events, the PJD made a notable comeback in this election, increasing its representation from a mere 13 seats in 2021 to 54 seats. This resurgence reflects a shift in the political landscape, although the longstanding rivalry between PAM and PJD makes a coalition between the two parties unlikely. The PJD has already announced its intention to remain in opposition.
The third-largest party in the elections was the Istiqlal party, which is also aligned with the monarchy and is expected to be a key player in any coalition negotiations. PAM's current coalition partner, the National Rally of Independents (RNI), experienced a significant decline, dropping from 102 seats to 66.
Voter turnout for the elections was notably low, with only 38 percent of Morocco's 15.8 million registered voters participating. This figure represents the second-lowest turnout since King Mohammed VI ascended to the throne in 1999, following a record low of 37 percent in 2007. Analysts attribute this disengagement to widespread disillusionment among the electorate, particularly among youth, following protests over issues such as employment, healthcare, and education, as well as the recent tragedies involving migrants attempting to reach Spain.
Potential candidates for the position of prime minister include prominent PAM members such as Fouzi Lekjaa, the head of Morocco's football federation and budget minister, and Fatima Ezzahra Mansouri, who currently serves as the mayor of Marrakech and the minister of national planning, urban planning, housing, and urban policy. If Mansouri is appointed, she would make history as Morocco's first female prime minister.
The incoming government will have the responsibility of overseeing substantial investments as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. This event is expected to bring significant economic opportunities and challenges to the new administration.
As PAM navigates the complexities of coalition-building and governance, the political landscape in Morocco remains dynamic, with the potential for shifts in power and policy direction in the coming months.