Court Proceedings Against Mustapha Lakham Postponed
The Ordinary Criminal Chamber of the Court of First Instance in Sefrou has decided to postpone the trial of former world kickboxing champion Mustapha Lakham, who also serves as the head of the Imouzzer Kandar municipality. The hearing, which was initially scheduled for Tuesday, has been rescheduled to May 19, following the absence of Lakham and one of the complainants from the court session.
This postponement is set against the backdrop of serious allegations against Lakham, including the misappropriation of public funds and the forgery of administrative documents. The investigation into these accusations began in late May 2025, culminating in a detailed inquiry by the investigating judge at the Court of Appeal in Fez. After concluding the investigation, the judge referred the case to the public prosecutor, who subsequently transferred it to the Court of First Instance in Sefrou for jurisdictional handling.
On March 19, 2025, Lakham announced his resignation from the presidency of the Imouzzer Kandar municipal council, citing what he termed a "blockage" that hindered the execution of numerous projects. He emphasized that the challenges he faces are not personal attacks but rather obstacles that impede the progress and development of the city.
This case emerges during a politically sensitive time for the Popular Movement party, which is currently grappling with increasing challenges in maintaining its electoral strength in the Sefrou and Imouzzer Kandar regions. The serious nature of the allegations against one of its elected officials coincides with the impending electoral deadlines, adding to the party's political pressures.
As reported by belpresse.com.
