Internal friction has erupted within Morocco's governing coalition as leaked recordings and accusations of poaching candidates threaten stability before the September elections.
- Morocco is set to hold parliamentary elections on September 23, 2026.
- The ruling coalition (RNI, PAM, and Istiqlal) is experiencing intense internal conflict.
- A leaked audio recording involving high-ranking officials has exposed tensions over future ministerial roles.
Morocco's political landscape is witnessing a pre-election storm. Even before the official campaign period begins on September 10, the allies currently governing the nation are engaged in bitter disputes, trading accusations, and shifting allegiances. This internal fracturing poses a significant challenge to the stability of the upcoming administration.
With approximately 15.8 million registered voters, the stakes for the September 23 elections are incredibly high. According to the Ministry of Interior, 702 candidate lists from 27 different political parties have already been submitted. The contest is not just about winning seats, but about who holds the leverage to form the next government under the Moroccan Constitution.
The Catalyst of Conflict: Leaked Audio and Power Struggles
The current tension was ignited by a leaked audio recording attributed to Rachid Talbi Alami, a senior figure in the National Rally of Independents (RNI). The recording suggests deep-seated friction between the RNI and the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) regarding the future of Fouzi Lekjaa, the influential Budget Minister.
Lekjaa is a powerhouse in Moroccan politics, widely recognized for his leadership in the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, which guided the national team to the 2022 World Cup semifinals. The controversy centers on whether Lekjaa should be granted the economy and finance portfolio in the next government, a topic that RNI members appear to have criticized in the leaked audio.
The fact that senior leaders are negotiating government posts before a single vote is cast raises serious questions about democratic integrity.
BozokMedia analysis shows that this dispute highlights the precarious nature of Morocco's multi-party coalition system. While the RNI, PAM, and Istiqlal Party currently share power, they are fundamentally competitors fighting for the same pool of influence and ministerial control.
Historical Context: The Rise and Fall of the PJD
To understand the current volatility, one must look at the recent history of Moroccan governance. Between 2011 and 2021, the Justice and Development Party (PJD) held significant power. However, their dominance collapsed in the 2021 elections, where they plummeted from 125 seats to just 13. This massive shift paved the way for the current coalition, which is now struggling to maintain unity amidst economic pressures and social demands.
| Party | 2021 Seats | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| RNI | 102 | Leading Governing Party |
| PAM | 87 | Governing Ally |
| Istiqlal | 81 | Governing Ally |
| PJD | 13 | Opposition |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When are the Moroccan parliamentary elections scheduled?
The elections are scheduled to take place on September 23, 2026.
2. Who is Fouzi Lekjaa?
He is the Moroccan Budget Minister and a prominent figure in Moroccan football administration.