Morocco election tests youth trust in politics

Morocco's parliamentary election on Wednesday will test whether political parties can regain the trust of younger voters, with only four percent of registered voters aged 18 to 24.

Nearly 16 million Moroccans have registered to elect 395 members of the House of Representatives. Social disparities and youth unemployment are major campaign issues, while many young people say they expect little from the political system.

The vote comes a year after youth-led Gen Z demonstrations demanded better health and education services. Morocco has also seen frustration over jobs and living conditions despite official figures showing economic growth of about five percent last year and unemployment at 13 percent.

Political scientist Mohamed Chiker said the election faces two main challenges: restoring voters' trust, especially among young people, and bringing forward an honest political elite.

Some young Moroccans told AFP they would not vote, citing unemployment and distrust of campaign promises. Others said they would take part in the hope that the next government improves social conditions and raises the minimum wage.

The campaign has also unfolded after tens of thousands of people, mostly young Moroccans, crossed into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in July in a migrant rush that heightened tensions between Rabat and Madrid.