Patrice Motsepe addresses CAN 2025 final controversy and corruption allegations from Rabat
via Le Matin3 min read
Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football CAF, has embarked on a tour between Dakar and Rabat to address the fallout from the CAN 2025 final verdict. Following a meeting with Lekja芒, also CAF's first vice-president, Motsepe spoke to the Moroccan press, aiming to regain control of the situation. He expressed disappointment over the events that marred the final, stating that the matter is now in the hands of the Court of Arbitration for Sport TAS. Motsepe believes the TAS decision will help reconcile Senegal, Morocco, and the 54 African nations. He also praised Morocco's organization of the event, calling it the "most successful CAN in history." Addressing accusations of corruption, particularly from Senegal, Motsepe encouraged anyone with evidence to pursue legal action, stating he has nothing to hide and that independent investigations are underway. He dismissed some accusations as "unfounded." Regarding the Senegalese supporters arrested in Rabat, Motsepe adopted a cautious stance, emphasizing respect for judicial sovereignty and suggesting a resolution through dialogue between states. He clarified that CAF's role is limited to sports responsibilities, not interference in national legal procedures. Looking to the future, Motsepe reaffirmed support for the "Pamoja 2027" project, confirming that the CAN 2027 will take place in East Africa, hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, from June 19 to July 18. He expressed confidence despite infrastructure co
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Mr. Akhannouch, representing King Mohammed VI, offered condolences to the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, following the death of his father, His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani. During an audience at Lusail Palace, Mr. Akhannouch delivered a message of condolences and sympathy from the King. The Emir of Qatar expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI and highlighted the strong personal ties and solid relations between Qatar and Morocco. The Moroccan delegation included the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita, and His Majesty the King's Ambassador to Qatar, Mr. Mohamed Setri. In his message, King Mohammed VI conveyed his deep sorrow over the loss and extended his sincerest condolences to His Highness, the princely family, and the Qatari people.
The Authenticity and Modernity Party PAM is preparing for the 2026 elections by strategically positioning women candidates in local constituencies. Samir Goudar, a member of PAM's political bureau and president of the Organization division, stated that the party will present six women candidates in six local constituencies. He also highlighted that three women elected in 2021 from regional lists will now run in local lists, leveraging their legislative experience from the 2021-2026 term. This move signals that regional lists are now seen as a stepping stone rather than a final destination. Key candidates include Fatima-Zahra Mansouri, PAM's national coordinator and president of the National Elections Commission, who will run in Sidi Youssef Ben Ali in Marrakech. Najwa Koukous, president of the national council, will be a candidate in Anfa, Casablanca. Bouchra Alwardi will run in Rommani, Kh茅misset province, while incumbent parliamentarian Imane Lamoui retains her candidacy for Ouarzazate. Ouiam Mhirchi was designated for Ouezzane, and Manal Badil, president of the Berrechid commune, is also among the local candidates. In parallel, PAM has reformed the process for designating candidates for regional women's lists, opening it to all female activists. An open call for applications for regional constituencies for the 2026 legislative elections was announced via the party's official electronic platform from June 22 to 28. A specialized commission will review applications and condu
The 14th congress of the Istiqlalian Youth, held under the theme "Empowerment now, towards a new social contract," focused on redefining the role, achievements, and limitations of the Istiqlal Youth organization. Nizar Baraka, Secretary General of the Istiqlal Party, urged the organization to critically assess its journey and adapt to societal changes. A national survey initiated on January 11, 2025, involving over 15,000 young people, revealed a disconnect between youth and political parties. Baraka emphasized the importance of youth engagement, stating, "We do not want a youth that remains a spectator of what is happening around it. We want a youth conscious of its responsibility towards the homeland, convinced that it can change the realities it experiences in its country." The survey results informed a roadmap for the party, prioritizing access to employment, healthcare, education, training, reducing regional inequalities, developing digital and AI skills, supporting youth initiatives, and increasing youth participation in public decision-making. Baraka highlighted that Moroccan youth possess competence, patriotism, and ambition, requiring genuine opportunities to contribute. He advocated for political and institutional action as the sole path to change, urging youth to engage with parties, institutions, and public decision-making bodies. Beyond youth issues, Baraka outlined five commitments adopted by the national council: protecting family and Moroccan values, defending