Can Nizar Baraka Unite the Istiqlal Party?
The Istiqlal Party, one of Morocco’s oldest and most influential political groups, is at a crossroads. Six months after its 18th National Congress, the party is still grappling with internal divisions and a leadership vacuum.
The anticipation is palpable as the Istiqlal Party gears up for its National Council meeting, scheduled between September 28th and October 5th. This gathering carries immense weight, as it represents an opportunity to finally establish the party’s executive committee – a task that has been plagued by delays and disagreements.
At the heart of the issue lies a power struggle between two prominent factions within the party: one led by Nizar Baraka and the other by Hamdi Ould Rachid. These “deep and mysterious” differences, as some have called them, have created a stalemate, preventing the election of executive committee members and leaving the party in a state of limbo.
Despite the ongoing tensions, sources suggest that a final list of executive committee members will be revealed at the National Council meeting. This list, it is hoped, will reflect a carefully brokered internal compromise, signaling a commitment to unity and a shared vision for the future.
Baraka, a prominent figure in Moroccan politics, is expected to present a list that prioritizes internal cohesion and strengthens the party’s position for the next four years. The new executive committee is likely to feature a mix of established leaders and fresh faces, reflecting a desire to balance experience with a much-needed injection of new ideas and perspectives.
Furthermore, sources indicate a strong emphasis on diversity and representation within the committee. Four positions are expected to be filled by members under the age of forty, and at least six women are anticipated to be included. This commitment to youth and gender balance aligns with both legal requirements and the party’s recognition of the need for broader representation in decision-making.
The upcoming National Council meeting is not merely an organizational formality; it’s a crucial test of the Istiqlal Party’s ability to overcome internal divisions and reassert its leadership on the Moroccan political stage. The outcome of this meeting will undoubtedly shape the party’s trajectory and influence in the years to come. As Morocco navigates a dynamic and evolving political landscape, all eyes are on the Istiqlal Party as it seeks to find its footing and chart a course for the future.
