Mfida Widad, a parliamentarian from the Laayoune region, spoke at the UN's Fourth Committee in New York, highlighting Morocco's democratic progress, particularly in the southern regions. She emphasized the significance of the September 23rd legislative elections, which saw a high turnout and reinforced the legitimacy of the Moroccan parliamentary system.
Widad noted that her participation in the elections as a young woman from the southern regions reflects the growing involvement of women in Moroccan politics. She stressed that her presence in the parliament is a testament to the country's commitment to democracy and representation. The elections saw a significant turnout, with 77% participation in the Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra region and 80.36% in the city of Laayoune alone.
The parliamentarian highlighted the notable representation of women in the new parliament, with women making up around 38% of the deputies elected from the southern regions. She emphasized that these numbers demonstrate the active engagement of voters in the southern regions, who are exercising their right to choose their representatives and hold them accountable.
Widad contrasted the democratic process in Morocco with the situation in refugee camps, where residents are denied the right to participate in the political process. She emphasized that the legitimacy of representation is not a claim, but a mandate that is earned and renewed through regular elections.
The parliamentarian praised Morocco's autonomy initiative as a foundation for resolving the Sahara conflict. She noted that the initiative prioritizes the involvement of local populations in managing their affairs through elected representatives, promoting democracy and accountability.
Widad's address to the Fourth Committee reflects Morocco's efforts to promote its democratic achievements and reinforce its legitimacy in the region. Her participation in the committee's discussions underscores the importance of Morocco's experience in promoting democracy and representation in the region.
The historic participation of the southern regions in the legislative elections has significant implications for Morocco's democratic development. The country's commitment to democratic principles and representation is reflected in the growing involvement of women and young people in the political process.
Key points
- Moroccan parliamentarian Mfida Widad highlights the historic participation of southern regions in recent legislative elections at the UN's Fourth Committee.
- The elections saw a significant turnout, with 77% participation in the Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra region and 80.36% in the city of Laayoune alone.
- Women make up around 38% of the deputies elected from the southern regions, demonstrating the growing involvement of women in Moroccan politics.
