Parliamentary Elections Signal Victory for the Moroccan People and Vindication of the King's Quest for a Democratic Government

RABAT, Morocco, Nov. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Morocco's moderate Islamist party, PJD, won a narrow victory in Friday's historic general election and, together with a coalition of smaller parties, is set to assume control of Parliament. A large turnout of over 45% and strong participation by the electorate vindicated the King's moderate approach to initiating and driving democratic reform.

Despite calls by February 20th protesters and others to boycott the election, voter turnout was significantly higher than the 37% turnout in Morocco's last general election four years ago. Many critics of the King were convinced that no Islamists would be allowed to win seats in the new Parliament. PJD's victory,despite the lack of a majority, appears to confirm the transparent, well-monitored electoral process, as well as King Mohammed VI's successful approach to political reform.

With this election, the Moroccan people have sent a clear message that they want to continue the transition toward democratization, which they have been able to pursue while maintaining relative peace and stability in the face of turbulence and turmoil in Egypt, Libya, and other emerging Arab states. Morocco's moderate Islamists, stated Lahcen Daodi, deputy leader of PJD, support the King, but will work toward greater reforms domestically, while maintaining the close relationships already established with the West, particularly Europe and the United States.

For further information, please contact Hicham Enhaili, MoroccoTomorrow, a non-profit, non-partisan organization established to serve as a voice and sounding board for young Moroccans around the world, as well as anyone interested in learning more about Morocco.

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SOURCE MoroccoTomorrow