Party System Fragmentation in Morocco

This paper examines the fragmentation in the party system of Morocco. First, we describe the party system, taking into account the origin and nature of the Moroccan multi-party scene, the transformations in the party system that have taken place since Independence, and its present divisions. Second, we examine the influence of the electoral system on fragmentation, considering such elements as seat allocation in constituencies, the electoral formula, and the electoral barrier. Third, we explore some characteristics of fragmentation, using as indicators Rae's fractionalisation index, the effective number of parties, and the parties in government coalitions. In this regard, we analyse the differences between electoral and legislative fragmentations, the evolution of fragmentation – by comparing elections in which different procedures were followed – and the party system that has emerged as a result of these processes. Lastly, we outline the main consequences that fragmentation has had on the Moroccan political arena.