Dates of last and next legislative elections: L. House 2002/2007
U. House 2003/2006

Head of state: H.M. King Mohammed VI

AT THE LAST ELECTION

Morocco is a constitutional monarchy with a bicameral legislature. The king appoints (and may dismiss) the prime minister and, on the prime minister's recommendation, other members of the cabinet.

Profile

The formation of a socialist-led government after elections in 1997 was seen as a breakthrough in terms of indicating the growing role of the party system. The ruling parties maintained their strength in the 2002 elections, with the USFP and Istiqlal gaining most seats, but support for Islamists (the PJD) rose dramatically. Independent Driss Jettou was appointed prime minister.

Main Political Issues

The post-Hassan monarchy

King Mohammed VI is seen as a less dominating figure than his father, Hassan II, and his accession raised hopes for change. The king's marriage in 2002 to computer engineer Salma Bennani was presented as evidence of a more modern and open outlook. The queen is expected to provide a role model for Moroccan women.

Islamist militancy

There is now a more tolerant stance toward Islamist activists. In 2000, Abdessalam Yassine, spiritual leader of the banned Justice and Good Deeds movement, was released after ten years in prison without trial. Pro-Islamist rallies have far outnumbered those by supporters of greater rights for women. In 2003, suicide bombings in Casablanca were linked to al-Qaida, suggesting a widening of Moroccan Islamist activities.

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004