A surreal scene unfolded during the CAF Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa, as reported by BOTOLA’s special correspondent, Nazim Bessol. In a lounge at the Skylight Hotel, Faouzi Lakjaâ, president of the Moroccan Royal Football Federation (FRMF) and Deputy Minister of the Royal Budget, briefly met with several assembly members, each presenting a request or concern.
After these short meetings, visitors were then escorted by members of the Moroccan delegation. Once this orchestrated display was over, Lakjaâ informed CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe of his decision to skip the 46th General Assembly’s sessions before boarding his private jet back to Morocco, having spent only a few hours in Addis Ababa.
It was clear to any observer that these assembly members were acting like mere vassals, carrying out missions, notably to campaign against Algeria through Walid Sadi, president of the Algerian Football Federation. For Lakjaâ, this spectacle aimed to showcase the FRMF’s influence within the Confederation of African Football, although it did not escape the notice of both Dr. Motsepe and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who seek a balance of power within the CAF. This political dynamic also explains recent positions taken by CAF President Motsepe and the head of the Senegalese Football Federation, Me Augustin Senghor. Contrary to rumors, Motsepe’s potential second-term bid doesn’t hinge on Lakjaâ or his resources, as the Moroccan can sway certain middle levels but not the CAF leadership.
Motsepe, however, remains confident in his backing, even in the face of francophone interventions. His goal is to eliminate any power-sharing, particularly with the FRMF, and to maintain sole control over his prerogatives. To this end, he has reached out to the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) multiple times, although these moves have occasionally drawn sharp criticism from some media outlets.
Motsepe’s Secretary-General, Véron Mosengo-Omba, a trusted ally of Infantino, has also been the target of a fierce media campaign. A senior CAF official commented, “I don’t understand these attacks against Motsepe. Let’s not forget that he is South African. He doesn’t mix football with politics, despite the pressures and invitations.” A pointed and insightful remark.
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