Casablanca's Opaque Sports Equipment Distribution Raises Eyebrows
In the bustling city of Casablanca, a recent distribution of sports equipment has emerged amidst allegations of electoral manipulation. This initiative, which reportedly cost the city council approximately 5 million dirhams, is seen by many as a strategic move to bolster the political campaign of a municipal official ahead of the upcoming elections in September 2026. According to a report by the Arabic daily Assabah, the distribution includes various sports items such as jerseys, shorts, balls, and trophies, intended for select sports clubs in the metropolis.
The city’s municipal office, located on Boulevard Ibn Tachfine, has been witnessing an unusual surge in activity as these sporting goods are handed out. However, many city council members, particularly the deputy mayors, were reportedly taken aback by the allocation of this significant budget for sports equipment without their prior knowledge. The official behind this initiative, identified as Abdellatif Naciri, allegedly utilized his authority over the sports sector, which was combined with cultural affairs, to access city funds for this purpose, cleverly intertwining it with his early campaign efforts.
Concerns Over Electoral Timing and Transparency
While the Casablanca city council is bound by a development agreement that covers the period from 2024 to 2028, allocating annual financial assistance to around 24 sports federations, the recent distribution has raised serious concerns regarding its timing and transparency. Critics argue that such actions are politically motivated, especially given that they occur just five months before crucial legislative, regional, and municipal elections. Local leaders have voiced their discontent, pointing out that the distribution of sports equipment typically falls under their jurisdiction, which they have been unintentionally sidelined from in this instance.
Moreover, the substantial expenditure of 5 million dirhams has been called into question, as historically, a budget of approximately 400,000 dirhams would suffice to meet the needs for such sports equipment. This discrepancy has led to growing dissatisfaction among local officials who believe this distribution process undermines their roles and responsibilities within their respective districts.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
