Parliament of Morocco, Rabat

The Parliament of Morocco is located in Rabat. Since 1996, the national legislature has become bicameral and has therefore two parliamentary chambers: the Assembly of Representatives or the lower house, and the Assembly of Councillors. The Members of Parliament come from Morocco and the Moroccan-held parts of Western Sahara Part of the reserve powers, the King of Morocco has the right to dissolve the Parliament. In the past, during the "years of lead" under King Hassan II, this right was used extensively, along with suspensions and extensions of terms. Thus, until 1997, not a single elected Parliament was able to complete its term under normal circumstances. The role of Parliament, and the respect of the monarchy for its integrity, has increased considerably since 1999, when Mohammed VI took the throne. However, the power of Parliament is still being limited as it is the King who appoints the prime minister and on proposition from the latter, the members of government.