The Kawkab Athletic Club of Marrakech (KACM) is currently engulfed in a storm of challenges, ranging from resignations within its administration to a revolving door of coaches and justified unrest among both members and supporters. As the new season approaches, pressure mounts on President Idriss Hanifa, who finds himself in urgent need of a strategy to quell the turmoil and steer the club towards a clear direction. The hope of staying in the elite level was expected to signify a fresh start, and after a particularly grueling 2025/2026 season, the red and white supporters yearned for a peaceful atmosphere to lay the groundwork for a solid and sustainable project. However, this has been overshadowed by a tumultuous off-season filled with instability.
Instead of the calm and constructive work anticipated by the club's environment, KACM has been plagued by a series of missteps, including frequent coaching changes, resignations of key officials, and an unclear institutional communication strategy. This chaotic management style gives the impression of a club navigating without a compass, particularly as preparations for the decisive 2026/2027 season get underway.
The Departure of Hicham Dmiî: The Original Sin?
Things began to spiral out of control immediately following the club's survival in the league. Hicham Dmii was called in as a firefighter to save the club from sinking, and he successfully fulfilled his mission. For the vast majority of supporters, extending his contract seemed like a logical step to build on the newfound stability. However, the presidency chose a different path, a decision that, while legally valid, sparked significant confusion and created a rift between the management and the Marrakech public.
To replace Dmiî, the management initially appointed Reda Hakam, but this was short-lived, as Hakam left shortly after being appointed. In a last-minute effort, the club turned back to Youssef Safri. While instability on the coaching bench is a common reality in modern football, the rapid succession of three differing tactical and personal profiles within such a short span raises questions about how to instill a clear playing identity and prepare the team amidst ongoing uncertainty.
Management and Governance Issues
Upon taking office, Youssef Safri made it clear he wanted to leave his mark by reorganizing the technical staff. His first significant move was the departure of Aziz Kénani, the goalkeeping coach, replaced by Mohamed Koumiri. While this adjustment falls within the legitimate prerogatives of a head coach who wishes to work with trusted individuals, it nonetheless fueled further debate in an environment already on the brink of a nervous breakdown.
Behind the scenes, frustration is mounting. Multiple sources close to the Marrakech entity report that dissenting voices are criticizing President Idriss Hanifa for what they perceive as an overly solitary approach to management. A glaring example of this dysfunction is the recruitment process for new players, which reportedly occurs without prior consultation with the technical staff. Signing recruits without explicit approval from Coach Safri undermines sporting authority and raises serious questions about the coherence of the overall project as the competition looms.
As this uncertainty continues, the restructuring of the sports society is proving to be painful. Despite being considered close to the president, Zaïd Belinda ultimately resigned under the weight of criticism and growing pressure on social media. On the pitch, midfielder Nadir Laqmani departed to join AS FAR. However, the most heated disputes are happening at the administrative level, with the announcement of the suspension of second vice-president Tarek Smirès following his resignation, a disciplinary action that provoked a strong backlash as Smirès had already declared his intention to step down.
In this climate of extreme tension, the fracture has now widened within the internal governance: KACM members are demanding an emergency meeting with Idriss Hanifa to clarify the club's situation. The public is rightfully demanding a strategic vision, a targeted and collaborative recruitment process, and a squad capable of honoring KACM's status in both the league and the Throne Cup. The weight of history necessitates an ambition that matches the prestige of this jersey.
It is high time to unite. Kawkab of Marrakech is not an ordinary club; leading this institution cannot be reduced to the solitary exercise of power or administrative handling of internal tensions through disciplinary suspensions. President Idriss Hanifa must recognize the stakes: nothing sustainable can be built in isolation or through confrontation. It is urgent to calm the spirits, respect the competencies of each stakeholder, and open a frank dialogue with members, vital forces, and former club figures to rebuild a sacred unity. With the first official match on the horizon, KACM can no longer afford to waste time on internal disputes. Supporters no longer seek promises but actions and serenity. The history of Kawkab deserves far better than this perpetual cycle of turmoil.
As reported by lopinion.ma.
