Morocco’s nationalist Istiqlal Party (PI) has emerged as the surprise winner in a key parliamentary vote marred by the lowest turnout ever recorded in the North African nation. The PI won 52 seats or 16 percent of the vote, five more than the Islamist Justice and Development Party (PJD). Istiqlal, the oldest political party in the kingdom, was founded in 1944 and played a major role in campaigning for independence from France, which was achieved in 1956. PJD leaders had predicted their party to win at least one million of the eligible votes and at least 70 seats in the 325-deputy chamber up from 42 in the last parliament. Benmoussa said the People’s Movement (MP) came third with 43 seats followed by the National Rally of Independents (RNI) with 38 seats. The Socialist Union of People’s Forces (USFP) trailed fifth with 36 seats. The proportional representation system makes it virtually impossible for a single party to gain an absolute majority. The turnout was just 37 percent of the 15.5 million electorates.
MOROCCO’S ISTIQLAL PARTY WINS ELECTION
Morocco’s nationalist Istiqlal Party (PI) has emerged as the surprise winner in a key parliamentary vote marred by the lowest turnout ever recorded in the North African nation.