The Justice and Development Party (PJD) is leading in several regions across Morocco, according to preliminary results from the recent elections. Abdelali Hamieddine, a member of the PJD, stated that the party is in first place by a wide margin over other political parties. The PJD has reportedly taken the lead in areas including Inezgane, Agadir, Taroudant, Casablanca, Rabat, Salé, Meknes, and Fez, as well as in several rural areas.
The PJD's lead in rural areas is particularly notable, with one rural commune reporting 132 votes for the party, while the second-place party received only 32 votes. Hamieddine also mentioned that the PJD is taking the lead in Temara in northern regions. These results have sparked questions about whether the PJD can create a surprise and secure a win after a disappointing performance in the 2021 elections.
The national voter turnout for the recent elections reached 38.02%, which is lower than the 51% turnout in the 2021 elections. According to the Interior Ministry, the voting process took place under normal conditions, with only a limited number of isolated cases involving a limited number of polling stations. Despite this, political parties, including the PJD, are celebrating their leadership in several regions.
The PJD's performance has raised questions about its potential to return to the government. The party had a disappointing failure in the 2021 elections, securing only 13 seats after winning the most seats in the 2016 elections. However, the PJD has been vowing that its presence is stronger than in the previous elections, citing its leadership in two elections in a row in 2011 and 2016.
PJD leader Abdelilah Benkirane reported that party observers at several polling stations were denied copies of the official records containing the results after voting ended. Benkirane stated that he had spoken with the Minister of Interior, Abdelouafi Laftit, who confirmed that party observers should receive copies of the polling station minutes. Benkirane described reports that some polling station presidents refused to provide the documents as unacceptable and contrary to the law and official instructions.
The PJD's remarks have triggered questions about whether the party could create a surprise for other parties and secure a win. The National Rally of Independents won the 2021 elections and formed a coalition with the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) and Al Istiqlal. The PJD's potential return to the government could have significant implications for Moroccan politics.
The preliminary results and voting process have been closely watched by Moroccans and international observers. The PJD's lead in several regions could have a significant impact on the formation of the next government. Key points to watch include the final results, the PJD's ability to form a coalition, and the potential implications for Moroccan politics.
Key points
- The PJD is leading in several regions across Morocco, according to preliminary results.
- The national voter turnout for the recent elections reached 38.02%.
- The PJD's performance has raised questions about its potential to return to the government.
