From fuel prices to voting rights: What awaits Morocco’s parliamentary spring session

As Morocco’s Parliament prepares to open its 2025–26 spring legislative session, several contentious issues are expected to take center stage ahead of general elections scheduled for Sept. 23.

Lawmakers are likely to focus on pressing economic and social concerns, including rising living costs and mounting pressure on household purchasing power.

Fuel prices are expected to be a key topic of debate. Diesel rose by about 2 dirhams per liter and gasoline by 1.5 dirhams on March 16, fueling public concern over the impact on household budgets and the broader cost of living.

The government is also likely to face questions over the policies and measures it has adopted to ease these pressures and whether it can turn ongoing challenges into opportunities for economic and social stability.

Another issue expected to resurface is the permanent adoption of GMT+1. Calls to scrap the time change have intensified in recent days, with critics citing its effects on the economy, social life, public health and overall quality of life.

Lawmakers are also expected to push forward several major bills and reforms, including those related to the justice system, the criminal code, and pending legislation. Additional measures concerning the National Press Council and revisions to the Family Code are also likely to be discussed.

The exclusion of Moroccans living abroad from the upcoming parliamentary elections may also come under scrutiny. A migration advocacy group warned that the move could undermine democratic participation and erode trust in public institutions.

The group argued that the policy contradicts the constitution, marginalizes citizens overseas and risks weakening ties between the diaspora and their homeland.

It called on authorities to ensure full political rights for Moroccans abroad, including the ability to vote and gain representation in Parliament.