Bouchra Kadiri, president of the Royal Moroccan Chess Federation, has been elected as the vice-president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). The election took place during the 97th edition of the FIDE General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, with representatives from 194 member countries in attendance. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Moroccan and African chess.
The FIDE General Assembly saw a highly competitive presidential election, with three candidates vying for the top spot. Kazakh Timur Turlov, and Germans Jan-Henric Buettner and Vadim Rosenstein, contested the presidency. After a second round of voting, Timur Turlov was elected as the new FIDE president for a four-year term, securing 110 votes. Bouchra Kadiri was part of Turlov's electoral list, focusing on developing global chess and strengthening African and women's presence in international decision-making.
Kadiri's campaign emphasized a strategic vision to promote chess globally, with a focus on Africa and women's chess. Her election as vice-president provides a platform for Morocco, the Arab region, and Africa to have a direct voice in FIDE's executive bureau. This influential position will enable her to advocate for development programs, expand the base of chess players, and support continental and regional championships.
In a statement after her election, Kadiri expressed her pride and gratitude to countries that trusted her with this important role. As president of the Royal Moroccan Chess Federation, her goal is to promote and develop chess, contributing to its resurgence on African and international scenes. She expressed confidence in a brighter future for Moroccan chess.
The 46th edition of the Chess Olympiad was held alongside the FIDE General Assembly, with Moroccan teams participating in the event. Kadiri's accession to this high-level international position reflects growing international confidence in Moroccan expertise within international organizations. This achievement is a result of the intense work of the Royal Moroccan Chess Federation, particularly Kadiri, in international and regional commissions and conferences.
For the first time in Moroccan chess history, the country has secured the vice-president position at FIDE. This victory demonstrates the impact of Moroccan efforts in international chess. The new mandate will focus on promoting chess development, increasing participation, and supporting continental and regional events.
Kadiri's election is seen as a significant step forward for African chess, providing a leadership voice and direct influence within FIDE. Her role will contribute to shaping the future of chess globally, with a focus on development, growth, and international cooperation. This achievement highlights Morocco's growing influence in the world of chess.
Key points
- Bouchra Kadiri becomes the first Moroccan to hold the vice-president position at FIDE.
- Kadiri's election aims to promote and develop chess in Africa and globally.
- The achievement marks a milestone for Moroccan and African chess, demonstrating growing international recognition.
