In a major step toward enhancing youth participation in political life, the Moroccan government has approved a new draft bill outlining specific requirements for independent candidates under 35 to run in the upcoming parliamentary elections. This initiative aims to foster transparency, fairness, and gender balance, while encouraging young citizens to actively engage in shaping the nation’s future.
Key Provisions of the Draft Law
The newly approved framework introduces clear conditions for young independents aspiring to join the political arena:
- Minimum of 200 Signatures:
Each independent candidate must gather at least 200 signatures from registered voters within their electoral district. - Gender Representation:
At least 30% of the collected signatures must be from women locally, and 50% at the regional level. - Regional Diversity Requirement:
Candidates running on regional lists must include signatures from each province within the region, representing at least 7% of the total required endorsements, while maintaining the gender quota. - One Signature Rule:
A voter cannot sign in support of more than one independent list or candidate — ensuring fairness and authenticity. - Financial Support for Young Candidates:
Mixed-gender youth lists (where candidates alternate between male and female) and whose members are all under 35 years old will receive public funding covering up to 75% of campaign expenses, though it cannot exceed the legal spending cap.
Digital Nomination System
To simplify procedures and promote transparency, the draft law introduces an electronic submission platform. Through this portal, candidates or list representatives can:
- Fill out and sign their nomination forms online
- Upload required documents
- Verify all data and declare its accuracy digitally
This modernization reflects Morocco’s broader efforts toward digital governance and electoral integrity, aligning with global best practices.
A Pathway Toward Political Renewal
By focusing on inclusivity and accessibility, this law seeks to revitalize Moroccan democracy. Encouraging young independent voices — especially those outside traditional party structures — could reshape the political landscape, offering fresh ideas and a citizen-driven approach to governance.
However, experts stress that legal reform alone is not enough. True youth empowerment requires:
- Greater political education
- Transparent funding mechanisms
- Platforms that amplify young voices
Only through such systemic change can Morocco achieve a vibrant, participatory democracy that reflects the aspirations of its people.
The new electoral framework represents a bold effort to bridge the gap between youth and politics in Morocco. By empowering young leaders — both men and women — to compete independently, the country takes a significant step toward strengthening representation, promoting gender equality, and fostering a new generation of responsible public servants.
