As Morocco prepares for legislative elections on September 23, 2026, a report by Africa Intelligence has revealed that Fouzi Lekjaa, the country's football chief, has been in communication with French economist and writer Jacques Attali. Attali, a former adviser to French President François Mitterrand, is known for his influential role in European decision-making circles. Lekjaa, born in 1970 in Berkane, Morocco, is an agricultural engineer and former financial inspector who has gained popularity for his achievements with the Moroccan national football team.
Lekjaa's team has been instrumental in Morocco's successful bid to co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal. The upcoming elections have been dubbed the "World Cup government" due to the significance of this event. While there has been no official confirmation of Attali's involvement in Lekjaa's campaign, the report suggests that Attali's guidance could be a strategic move to bolster Lekjaa's chances of becoming the next head of government. Attali's company, Attali Associates, provides strategic consulting services to governments and companies.
Attali Associates, founded in 1994, offers expertise in public policy, long-term planning, economic transformation, and economic diplomacy. The company has worked with various governments, ministries, and major corporations, and has reported revenues of €8.1 million in 2023. Attali is also known for his social entrepreneurship initiatives, including the Positive Planet organization, which aims to support small businesses and microfinance initiatives. This organization has helped millions of people worldwide and has a strong presence in France.
Lekjaa has denied any interest in becoming head of government, stating that his current role as football chief ends on September 23, and that the decision on who will lead the government will be up to King Mohammed VI. However, observers note that Lekjaa's recent joining of the Authenticity and Modernity Party and his prominent role in the party's campaign have positioned him as a potential candidate for the top job. The Moroccan constitution stipulates that the king chooses the head of government from the party with the most seats.
Lekjaa's priorities, as stated publicly, include ensuring the success of the Authenticity and Modernity Party in the upcoming elections, defending Morocco's bid to host the 2025 African Cup of Nations final, and promoting the country's hosting of the 2030 World Cup. His association with Attali has raised questions about the potential for external influence on Morocco's politics. While Attali's role in Lekjaa's campaign remains unconfirmed, it is clear that Lekjaa is positioning himself for a significant role in Moroccan politics.
Attali's reputation as a influential adviser has been built over decades, with a network of contacts that includes former French presidents and other high-profile figures. His company has worked on various projects in Africa and the Middle East, often providing strategic guidance to governments and companies. The extent of Attali's involvement in Lekjaa's campaign remains unclear, but it is evident that Lekjaa is seeking to leverage his connections to achieve his goals.
As Morocco prepares for a critical election, the spotlight is on Lekjaa and his potential role in shaping the country's future. While Lekjaa has denied any ambition to become head of government, his actions suggest that he is positioning himself for a significant role. The influence of external advisers like Attali will likely be closely watched, as Morocco navigates its complex politics and prepares for the challenges ahead.
Key points
- Moroccan football chief Fouzi Lekjaa reportedly consulted French economist Jacques Attali ahead of legislative elections
- Lekjaa has denied any interest in becoming head of government despite his prominent role in the Authenticity and Modernity Party
- The influence of external advisers like Attali will likely be closely watched as Morocco prepares for a critical election
