Morocco votes for new parliament as youth frustration shapes campaign

Moroccans went to the polls on Wednesday to elect a new parliament, in a vote shaped by growing frustration among young people, high unemployment and calls for better schools, hospitals and housing.

Polling centres across the North African kingdom were open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, with nearly 16 million registered voters eligible to choose the 395-seat House of Representatives.

In the capital, Rabat, voters arrived slowly through the morning and opinions on the election appeared muted. At a polling station at Oum El Banine Secondary School, electoral staff helped people cast their ballots.

"I just have to take part in the elections because I was asked to do so as an ordinary citizen. It doesn't matter who wins; they are all the same," said voter El Hadi Bouazza.

Another voter, Mouad Ouakhiti, described voting as a way to express one's voice and take part in a process tied to political awareness. "Today, we don't need empty seats," he said.

The next government will oversee billions of dollars in investment as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, leading some to describe it as the "World Cup government." It will also face pressure to address everyday concerns such as jobs, wages and the cost of living.

For many young Moroccans, the election comes as doubts grow that political participation can improve their daily lives. Some have turned to street protests, while others have considered leaving the country or staying away from the ballot box.

Results are expected on Thursday.