Morocco Coalition Friction Rises Ahead of 2026 Elections

Morocco's governing coalition is experiencing increasing internal friction as the September 23, 2026 parliamentary elections draw closer. The Rally of Independents (RNI), the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), and the Istiqlal Party, which collectively form the current government, have reportedly begun to exchange accusations, intensifying competition just ahead of the official campaign period set to begin on September 10.

This escalating tension was notably exacerbated by a leaked audio recording. The recording is attributed to Rachid Talbi Alami, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and a prominent figure within the RNI. In the alleged recording, criticisms were reportedly leveled against Budget Minister Fouzi Lekjaa, hinting at underlying disagreements concerning future cabinet appointments within the coalition.

Governing Dynamics and Electoral Preparations

Despite the public nature of these disputes, RNI leadership has characterized such exchanges as a typical aspect of political debate. However, these events underscore the inherent competitive dynamic within the coalition, where partners must simultaneously collaborate on government policy while actively vying for electoral advantage and dominance in the upcoming polls.

Preparations for the elections are already well underway. The Interior Ministry confirmed that a total of 702 candidate lists were submitted by 27 distinct political parties before the August 31 deadline. These elections will determine the composition of the House of Representatives, with 15.8 million registered voters expected to participate.

Constitutional Mandate and Political Landscape

Under the provisions of the Moroccan Constitution, the monarch holds the authority to appoint the head of government. This appointment is traditionally made from the political party that secures the largest number of seats in the parliamentary elections, often necessitating subsequent coalition negotiations to form a stable administration.

The current governing parties are actively defending their performance, particularly highlighting their achievements in economic reforms and the expansion of social protection programs. Concurrently, opposition groups, including the Justice and Development Party (PJD), are working to capitalize on any perceived voter dissatisfaction. Their aim is to regain significant parliamentary influence, which they lost in previous electoral cycles.

The political climate is therefore marked by a delicate balance between intra-coalition rivalries and the broader competition with opposition forces. As the campaign period officially commences, the focus will intensify on how these internal dynamics within the ruling bloc might sway public opinion and ultimately impact the outcome of the 2026 elections.