Growing pressure on Driss Lachgar to resign following USFP’s disappointing election results

A critical political turning point for the Socialist Union

Driss Lachgar, First Secretary of the Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP), is facing a delicate and pivotal stage in his fourth term at the head of the party. These developments follow results described by observers as disappointing in the September 23, 2026, elections, where the party secured only 26 seats, marking a notable decline compared to the 34 seats won in 2021.

Widespread criticism of the leadership and losses in key districts

Following the announcement of the final results, internal criticism of the current leadership has intensified, particularly after the failure of party candidates in districts where Lachgar had made field visits to support them. The leadership’s previous estimates, which aimed for over 42 seats, have sparked deep resentment among party members and elected officials, especially following the defeat of several members of the political bureau and regional secretaries.

Demands for change and an extraordinary congress on the horizon

This electoral outcome has pushed demands for change back to the forefront of the internal debate. Prominent figures, including Hasna Abouzeid alongside several local leaders, are calling for a comprehensive review of the party’s management, particularly regarding the candidate selection process. The opposition within the organization believes that the discussion has moved beyond just reading numbers to questioning the viability of the current leadership’s continuation.

The future of the leadership at stake

Lachgar finds himself facing a difficult test. The issue is no longer just about seat counts, but the ability of the current leadership to convince the base that its organizational and political approach can stem the decline. With the widening circle of opposing voices holding the leadership directly responsible for the recent setback, calls are increasing for an extraordinary congress to restructure the party and restore its political influence.