The vote is the first major test for the governing coalition of conservatives and socialists since the moderate Islamist Justice and Development Party (PJD) scored its best result in 2007 legislative polls.

The authorities hope to improve on that year’s record-low 37 percent turnout, seen as proof of a widespread disillusionment with party politics that has played into the PJD’s hands.

“The attention of top government officials and party leaders will be focused on the turnout rate because they are terrified of a boycott and so-called voter apathy,” said Khaled al Harri, a political analyst.

By midday, voter turnout was over 12 percent, according to the Interior Ministry.

King Mohammed has kept a tight grip on power while loosening restrictions on political activity, improving Morocco’s human rights record and granting women more equality.

More than 13 million Moroccans are eligible to vote for 130,223 candidates vying for 27,795 seats in 1,503 village and city councils. Analysts forecast a higher turnout in rural areas than in cities.

A proportional voting system makes it almost impossible for a single party to gain outright control of one town and the final result often depends on deals between the parties.

“I hope that the results of our party will be good. I believe our party will do well in this vote,” PJD leader Abdelilah Benkirane told reporters.

Polls opened at 8 a.m. (0700 GMT) and will close at 7 p.m.

The PJD presents itself as an alternative to what it calls a self-serving elite that enriched itself at the country’s expense and sat back as moral values declined and crime grew.

Rivals say the PJD projects a moderate image but that its grass roots members want to enforce a conservative agenda and rein in personal freedoms.

Analysts will be watching PJD results in Fez, Casablanca, Rabat and other big cities where it competes against Istiqlal (Independence), a conservative, establishment party which leads the coalition government.

The PJD has slimmer chances in rural areas where family and tribal links often ensure victory for local dignitaries.

The vote will also test the appeal of a new party loyal to the king, which plans to step up opposition to the government.

Authenticity and Modernity (PAM) presents itself as an alternative to both the Islamists and old parties like Istiqlal.

The government lost its parliamentary majority last month when PAM withdrew its support. PAM’s 46 lawmakers are now in opposition but one of its leaders remains education minister.