Akhannouch: RNI wins through performance, not last-minute recruits

Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch defended his government’s record and outlined his party’s vision for the next legislative term on Saturday, telling supporters that Moroccans would reward performance over political rhetoric in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Speaking at a campaign-style gathering organized by the National Rally of Independents (RNI) in Dakhla under the slogan “Dignity and Opportunities for All,” Akhannouch said voters were looking for results rather than loud political discourse.

“You will win the elections because citizens want those who work, not those who raise their voices,” Akhannouch told party members. “We are not in an electoral transfer market. We are a party that builds its own talent and prepares for elections through fieldwork, not by recruiting names at the last minute.”

The prime minister opened his remarks by reaffirming Morocco’s position on the Sahara issue, describing it as a national cause and calling Dakhla a symbol of patriotism and commitment to the country’s territorial integrity.

He said the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region has undergone rapid development in recent years, citing strategic infrastructure projects including the Dakhla Atlantic Port, road networks, investments in food industries, tourism and renewable energy, as well as neighborhood sports facilities, public squares, parks, local markets and water and sanitation projects.

Akhannouch acknowledged that Morocco continues to face challenges related to employment, education, healthcare and regional disparities, saying the government does not claim that “everything is fine.”

Instead, he said authorities remain focused on implementing practical solutions to improve living conditions and ensure that economic development translates into tangible benefits for citizens.

“The government began its program with this objective, and the next phase will continue reforms while expanding their impact across all regions,” he said.

The RNI leader highlighted the government’s record in Dakhla, particularly in healthcare, saying seven local health centers have been renovated, two more are scheduled for rehabilitation and two new centers have been built.

He also said a university hospital is nearing completion and that the number of specialist doctors in the region has increased from 53 in 2021 to 72 in 2026, while the number of nurses has risen from 331 to 464 over the same period.

Akhannouch said the RNI’s 2026-2031 program will build on ongoing reforms in education and healthcare while expanding school transportation and meal programs and continuing efforts to attract investment and create jobs nationwide.

He noted that six major investment projects approved for the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region are expected to generate more than 3,700 direct and indirect jobs, strengthening the region’s economic appeal.

The prime minister also praised what he described as the party’s political maturity, pointing to its decision to announce candidates for upcoming elections well ahead of the vote.

He argued that democracy requires giving voters enough time to assess candidates and political platforms rather than compiling electoral lists shortly before elections.

Akhannouch rejected what he called an “electoral transfer market,” saying the RNI relies on its own pool of qualified women, men and young people instead of recruiting prominent figures shortly before elections.

“The citizens vote for vision, programs and credibility, not for individuals,” he said. “The party that honors its commitments and works consistently is the one capable of earning voters’ trust.”

He concluded by urging party members to continue engaging with citizens and to campaign with “calmness and composure,” saying confidence in their fieldwork should carry them through the upcoming elections.