Unlikely Alliances Emerge in Morocco’s Upcoming By-Election
Morocco’s political scene is buzzing with intrigue as an upcoming by-election in the Rabat-Ocean constituency draws closer. The election, scheduled for September 12th, 2024, is being held to fill a seat left vacant after the Constitutional Court removed the previous representative.
While the National Rally of Independents (RNI) party emerged victorious in the rabat-election/” title=”RNI Party Undecided: Who Will Contest the "Circle of Death" Election?”>previous election with 15,888 votes, the race for this by-election is far from predictable. Whispers of unexpected alliances and behind-the-scenes maneuvering are adding to the suspense.
Sources suggest that Saad Benmbarek, the RNI’s regional coordinator for the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region, is garnering support from an unexpected quarter – the opposition. This surprising turn of events has reportedly sparked discontent among some members of the opposition parties, who question the motives behind this unusual alliance.
Adding fuel to the fire are rumors that Hussein El Jabari, a prominent figure in the Popular Movement (MP) party, is actively working to bolster Benmbarek’s chances. This alleged support from a member of a rival party has raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about potential backroom deals and shifting political loyalties.
The RNI, meanwhile, is keeping its cards close to its chest. The party has yet to officially announce its candidate, adding to the air of uncertainty. Insiders suggest that the party is carefully considering its options, with at least seven potential candidates vying for the nomination. Among the names circulating are Amin Sadiq, the Deputy Mayor of Rabat, and the aforementioned Saad Benmbarek.
The by-election is shaping up to be a key battleground for Morocco’s political parties. The outcome could have significant implications for the balance of power, particularly in the Rabat region. With the RNI facing an unexpected challenge from within its own ranks and the opposition seemingly divided, the race for the Rabat-Ocean seat is sure to be closely watched.
Here’s a look at the candidates who have announced their intention to run:
Abdessamad Abou Zahir: Representing the Justice and Development Party (PJD), Abou Zahir currently serves as the party’s regional secretary in Rabat.
Farouk El Mdaouar: The Democratic Left Federation (FGD) has put forward El Mdaouar as their candidate for the by-election.
The Rabat-Ocean constituency has historically been a closely contested area. In the previous legislative elections, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) secured 7,076 votes, while the Istiqlal Party (PI) garnered 4,545 votes. The MP party, with Nabil Dkhich as their candidate, received 4,299 votes. The PJD, represented by Saadeddine El Othmani, secured 4,028 votes, and the Federation of the Democratic Left received 2,650 votes.
With such a diverse political landscape and the potential for further surprises, the upcoming by-election promises to be a fascinating insight into the evolving dynamics of Moroccan politics.
