Fouzi Lekjaa's Commitment to Sports Infrastructure

Fouzi Lekjaa, the Minister Delegate in Charge of Budget and leader of the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), dismissed allegations that he is using sports for electoral gain. During a meeting, he assured stakeholders that the construction of all stadiums currently underway or planned will proceed, irrespective of the PAM's electoral outcomes in the legislative elections scheduled for September 23. This statement was reported in the daily newspaper _Assabah_ on September 11, where Lekjaa emphasized that he is a responsible official who believes that serious sports projects should not experience delays due to political affiliations or electoral considerations.

Addressing Political Concerns

This declaration came in the context of a PAM meeting in Rabat aimed at outlining its electoral program. Lekjaa's remarks were a direct response to criticisms from leaders of majority parties who accuse him of leveraging the impressive performance of football teams, across all categories, for electoral advantage since he took over the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). These parties, once allies, express concerns about Lekjaa's ability to galvanize voters in favor of the PAM, particularly the National Rally of Independents (RNI) and, to a lesser extent, the Istiqlal Party. They fear that with the confidence of the King, Lekjaa could lead the post-election government if the PAM wins the upcoming elections decisively.

Furthermore, Lekjaa highlighted a recent visit to Tiznit, where local residents urged him to expedite the construction of the city's stadium, especially since the local team has advanced to the elite division (Botola Pro 1). In response, he assured them that the Tiznit stadium would be built regardless of political outcomes, stating, “Whether or not this matter is linked to politics, or whether the PAM wins or not, the Tiznit stadium will be realized.” He also reflected on the recent sports achievements under his leadership, mentioning the disappointment felt after Morocco’s national team, the Atlas Lions, was eliminated in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, although he remains focused on future goals, including hosting the 2030 World Cup final at Hassan II Stadium in Benslimane, with hopes of the Atlas Lions reaching that final.

As reported by fr.le360.ma.