Amhand Al-Attas, Morocco's former Interior Minister and honorary president of the Popular Movement Party, has publicly accepted his defeat in the parliamentary election held on September 23 in the Boulmane province. In a Facebook post, Al-Attas revealed that he had decided to run in the election despite his previous decision to distance himself from active politics. He stated that he chose to remain silent during the pre-election period and campaign, refraining from responding to criticism and personal attacks.
Al-Attas explained that he had initially decided to withdraw from active politics, not due to disappointment or forced withdrawal, but as a personal choice. He emphasized that he maintains a strong connection with the Popular Movement Party, where he spent most of his political career. This connection led him to accept the role of honorary president, proposed by party members during the 14th conference.
According to Al-Attas, preparations for the 2026 elections began in January, with several meetings with party members in Boulmane. They discussed potential candidates, but party members insisted that he should run as the party's representative. Al-Attas acknowledged the challenges, given the demographic changes in Boulmane and his over 10-year absence from active politics. Despite these factors, he chose to run to ensure the party had a credible candidate.
Before agreeing to run, Al-Attas set a condition: if elected, he would immediately resign, allowing the second-ranked candidate on the party list to take over. This condition contributed to intense competition for the second position on the Popular Movement Party's list. Al-Attas described the campaign as challenging, with a delayed start in a vast and scattered constituency. He conducted the campaign with a small group of supporters, focusing on respecting the law and citizens' dignity.
Al-Attas expressed his disappointment at not convincing voters but accepted the outcome, congratulating the winning candidates and wishing them success. He emphasized that his campaign adhered to the law and refrained from using means that could be considered illegal or degrading to voters. The former Interior Minister announced that his political chapter had closed, and he would support party members in the future, offering his experience and advice when needed.
Al-Attas's decision to run was motivated by his commitment to the Popular Movement Party, which has represented Boulmane in legislative elections since Morocco's independence. He aimed to prevent the party from going into the 2026 elections without a strong candidate. Despite his defeat, Al-Attas reaffirmed his dedication to the party and its members.
The electoral outcome marks a new chapter for Al-Attas, who has played significant roles in Moroccan politics and institutions. His decision to step back and support future party initiatives underscores his continued involvement in Moroccan politics, albeit in a different capacity.
Key points
- Amhand Al-Attas concedes defeat in Boulmane parliamentary election.
- Al-Attas cites commitment to Popular Movement Party as reason for running.
- Former Interior Minister vows to support party members in future initiatives.
