Administration's rigorous action limited use of money in vote, minister

Moroccan interior minister, Ahmed El-Midaoui, on Friday said that the administration's "rigorous" intervention restricted the use of money in Friday's elections.

One third of the chamber of advisors (upper house of parliament), i.e. 90 seats, was renewed Friday in indirect elections by colleges of local councils, professional chambers and wage earners.

A constitutional amendment adopted in 1996 set up the 270-member upper chamber and stipulated that one third of its members will be renewed every three years. The outgoing members are chosen by drawing of lots. The chamber's term is set for nine years.

The Moroccan interior minister, who was speaking at a press conference, during which he presented the poll results, said the competent services intervened in 18 prefectures and provinces and conducted investigation in 26 cases, while 180 people were interrogated.

The government is determined to spare no effort to fight the use of money in elections. "This pernicious evil" should be eradicated through joint efforts by the administration, political parties, trade unions and society, he said.

The minister further underlined that the electoral campaign unfolded smoothly throughout the country.