Fouzi Lekjaa Addresses Criticism Over Sports Investments
During a recent meeting held by the Party of Authenticity and Modernity (PAM) in Marrakech, Fouzi Lekjaa, the Minister Delegate in Charge of Budget and head of the PAM, responded to allegations that he is using sports for electoral gains. He firmly stated that the construction of all stadiums that have been initiated or are scheduled to begin will proceed regardless of the electoral outcome for PAM in the upcoming legislative elections on September 23. This assurance was shared in an interview with the daily newspaper _Assabah_, set to appear in their September 11 edition.
Lekjaa emphasized his commitment to sports infrastructure, asserting that he is “the kind of official who, when endorsing a serious sports project, ensures it is executed without delays, irrespective of party affiliation or electoral considerations.” This statement was made during a PAM gathering in Rabat aimed at outlining their electoral program and was likely a direct rebuttal to concerns raised by certain leaders within the ruling coalition who accuse him of exploiting the football successes achieved since he took the helm of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) for political advantage.
Commitment to Tiznit Stadium and Future Aspirations
According to _Assabah_, leaders from the National Rally of Independents (RNI) and, to a lesser extent, the Istiqlal party have expressed apprehensions regarding Lekjaa’s influence since his association with PAM. They fear that with the backing of the King, he may lead the government following the elections, especially as they believe PAM will secure a decisive victory. Lekjaa is recognized for his diligent management of sports projects, often completing them within set deadlines.
In his conversation with _Assabah_, Lekjaa revealed that during a recent visit to Tiznit, local residents urged him to expedite the construction of a stadium in their city, particularly following the elevation of their local football club to the elite division (Botola Pro 1). He assured them that “regardless of any political implications or the electoral success of PAM, the Tiznit stadium will be realized.” Moreover, he acknowledged that the sports achievements under his leadership are a national duty, expressing disappointment over Morocco’s exit in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, which fell short of his aspirations for a final appearance. However, he remains optimistic and has committed to hosting the final of the 2030 World Cup at the Hassan II Stadium in Benslimane, hoping to see the Lions of the Atlas compete in that final.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
