Morocco's opposition Social Democratic Party has demanded an investigation into alleged vote-rigging in Tangier's recent elections. Party General Secretary Jamal Ait El Asri stated that his party has yet to obtain all the necessary documents but will launch an investigation into voting irregularities in several cities, including Tangier, Meknes, Boulmane, and Casablanca. Ait El Asri described the situation in Tangier as a "catastrophe" and a "massacre."

Ait El Asri's comments come after reports emerged of a leaked document from the institution in Tangier's Ksabrata district. The document allegedly showed voting irregularities, leading to a judicial investigation and the arrest of several suspects. An international arrest warrant has been issued for Tangier Mayor Monir El Alimouri, raising questions about his responsibilities, particularly given his role as president of the World Organization of Local and Regional Governments.

El Alimouri's position as mayor of Tangier and president of the Moroccan Association of Municipal Councils has raised concerns about his potential involvement in vote-rigging. Ait El Asri questioned how someone with such significant responsibilities could be implicated in electoral irregularities. The opposition party is demanding not only an investigation into El Alimouri but also a probe into the local authorities, both elected and appointed.

Ait El Asri emphasized that the investigation should not be limited to one person but should include all possible responsibilities, whether political, electoral, or administrative. He stressed that every official involved should be subject to investigation. The opposition party is also calling for the withdrawal of two parliamentary seats from the Popular Movement party in Tangier, citing evidence of vote-rigging.

The investigation into voting irregularities in Tangier and other cities will be led by the opposition coalition, which includes the Social Democratic Party. Ait El Asri stated that his party has yet to obtain all the necessary documents, which has raised concerns and prompted them to launch their own investigation.

The alleged vote-rigging in Tangier has sparked concerns about the integrity of Morocco's electoral process. The opposition party's demands for an investigation and accountability have been echoed by many Moroccans, who are calling for greater transparency and fairness in the country's elections.

The case has also raised questions about the role of local authorities in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. Ait El Asri's comments have highlighted the need for greater accountability and transparency in Morocco's electoral process, and the opposition party's investigation is expected to shed more light on the situation.

Key points

  • Opposition party demands investigation into alleged vote-rigging in Tangier's recent elections.
  • International arrest warrant issued for Tangier Mayor Monir El Alimouri.
  • Opposition party calls for withdrawal of two parliamentary seats from Popular Movement party in Tangier.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.