Parliament of Morocco, Rabat

The Parliament of Morocco, situated in the heart of Rabat on Avenue Mohammed V, serves as the nation’s legislative body. Since 1996, Morocco’s parliamentary system has been bicameral, consisting of two chambers: the Assembly of Representatives (lower house) and the Assembly of Councillors (upper house). Members of Parliament are drawn from across Morocco and the Moroccan-held parts of Western Sahara.

Despite the existence of an elected Parliament, Morocco remains a constitutional monarchy, where the King retains considerable authority. Among his reserve powers, the King has the right to dissolve Parliament, a power that was used extensively during the "Years of Lead" under King Hassan II. Before 1997, no elected Parliament was able to complete a full term under normal circumstances due to frequent suspensions, extensions, and dissolutions. However, since Mohammed VI ascended to the throne in 1999, the role and stability of Parliament have increased. That said, executive power remains limited, as the King appoints the Prime Minister and, based on the latter’s recommendations, the members of government.

The Parliament Building, also known as the Courthouse (Palais de Justice), was constructed in 1928 and designed by Uruguayan architect Adrien Laforgue. Its red and ochre facade, shaped like an inverted Y, gives it a distinct presence in Rabat Ville. The structure features a minimalist yet elegant architectural style, with six classical pillars supporting a slim, ornate roof. Unlike more intricate Moroccan architectural designs, this building maintains a restrained aesthetic, with very few decorative elements.

Today, the Parliament of Morocco remains a key institution in the country’s evolving political landscape, balancing between monarchical authority and legislative governance.